Hackers are always looking for new ways to scam you, and the latest one takes an old password you’ve used and tries to convince you that you have been recorded watching porn.
As with all online scams, there are some different variants making the rounds, but almost all of them will start off with an old password you’ve used in the subject line. It will then go on to say in the body that you were recorded via your webcam watching porn and unless you send them some Bitcoin they will release the video to your contacts.
Business Insider published a version of one of the emails.
Business Insider
Before you freak out, do remember that there have been numerous large data breaches over the past few years. This has led to lists populating all over the internet of email addresses and the passwords associated with them. You can check HaveIBeenPwned to see if your email address comes up anywhere, but rest assured, it probably does.
What have the scammers been able to do with this password? Probably nothing. It is highly unlikely that they have gotten access to your computer, and even more unlikely they installed any software.
The best policy is to make sure that you are using unique passwords for all websites. Thanks to programs such as 1Password, there are no reasons for you to not do so. Also, make sure you’ve turned on two-factor authentication on any and all services that offer it.
As to the email itself, we recommend you just ignore it. The chances of all these parts lining up for them to accomplish what they claim are pretty low. It won’t make receiving these emails any less of a nuiscance, but at least you will know you’ve taken the proper steps to protect yourself.
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