If blackmailers knew where you lived, would you pay up? A new scam confronts victims with exactly this conundrum, using Google Maps as a tool of intimidation. And if they don’t pay, the scammers will pay them… a visit!
The scam starts with the criminals accessing personal information that was previously leaked online, like your name, email, and address. Using this data, they then look up your address on Google Maps and take a screenshot of your home.
Shortly after, they email you, falsely claiming they have tracked your online activities, including visits to adult websites. Their demand? $2,000 to keep this fabricated story private. To add pressure, they attach the screenshot of your home and threaten to visit if you don’t comply.
These alarming allegations are entirely false. The scammers have no ability to track your online activities, nor do they intend to show up at your home. They often operate from remote locations, with their sole aim being to manipulate you into paying through fear and intimidation.
What-to-do’s
Make sure to check off all actions, this will have a positive effect on your Behavioural Risk Score.
Lessons learned
Fear-based scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, combining stolen data with common tools like Google Maps. Recognising these tactics is essential for protecting yourself. Always treat unsolicited, alarming emails with suspicion.
Note – this is part of our ongoing Cyber awareness and training from Phished Academy.
