Beware of Password Email Scam

There is a new email scam circulating that is terrifying many people. The emails can vary but they all have similar content:

• The subject line includes a password that you probably have used at some stage.
• The sender says they have used that password to hack your computer, install malware, and video you through your webcam.
• They say they will reveal your adult-website habits and send video of you to your contacts unless you send them bitcoin.​

These emails are scams. Do not fall for them and do not make any payments.

The attacker doesn't have video of you or access to your contacts, and they haven’t been able to install malicious code on your computer. They’re taking a password from a database that’s available online, sending it to you, in the hope you’re scared enough to believe their story and send bitcoin.

How criminals are able to reference a valid password

​The passwords are all thought to have come from one of the many leaks and hacks that have hit companies in recent years. Many of the world's biggest online services – from LinkedIn to Adobe – have had passwords leaked onto the internet, and those are relatively readily available on the internet.

How to protect yourself

• Do not open attachments or click on links in emails or social media messages you’ve received from strangers.
• Make sure your passwords are complex and update them regularly
  
• Keep your computer security up to date with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a firewall​