Trend Micro researchers have identified a new spam campaign on the internet, which is based on sending fake emails with the aim of deceiving unsuspecting users.
The cybercriminals behind this campaign promise recipients an easy and quick way to become millionaires with the help of bitcoins.
The popular digital currency may have lost a significant portion of its value recently, but criminals still rely on it: Many use it to cover their criminal activities, while others use it as bait.
According to researchers, the fraudulent messages are titled: “Bitcoin: The Easiest Way to Become a Millionaire in 30 Days” and state:
“ Bitcoin is a great investment. The Bitcoin market today is valued at $12.2 billion…and it’s surprisingly easy to get a share if you own the right, automated software.”
Recipients are told they can win up to $23,000 (€16,500) by installing software that requires just three mouse clicks and runs automatically. The scammers point out that “no experience or talent is required” and that they themselves “became millionaires from their couches.”
However, the links included in the emails do not point to any sophisticated Bitcoin mining software. Instead, they take victims to a fake website (named “Bitcoin Millionaire”), where they are asked to enter their name, email, phone number, home address, and payment card details.
If you realize that you have fallen victim to this particular fraud, contact your financial institution immediately to report the incident so that the necessary security measures can be taken.
