HARRISBURG, Pa. (WKBN) — The Pennsylvania Attorney General is warning everyone about a new cybercrime where scammers may send you a picture of your home in an email and then try to extort money from you.
The cyber fraud is referred to as sextortion and involves a demand for money or the criminal will publicize alleged explicit materials about you. The fraud can also involve blackmail over a target’s browsing history.
It’s likely the criminals don’t have any of the materials they allege, and a person’s house can easily be found on Google maps. However, it is possible that the criminal has obtained some personal, sensitive information, which is why it’s imperative to be careful what you are posting on social media, sending in a text message or by email.
Like other scams, the cybercriminal will want money or personal information to steal your identity. They may ask for payments in Bitcoin or cryptocurrency and will provide a QR code or link to transfer the money. Do not scan the QR code or communicate with the cyber-criminal.