EXPERTS have revealed that Yahoo is the most counterfeit brand used by hackers to scam people out of their hard-earned money.
The long-running site’s name was used inappropriately in a fifth of scam emails by the end of 2022.
1
It took the will of Microsoft, Netflix, WhatsApp and DHL on the junk list.
So-called phishing attacks trick people into disclosing sensitive information or installing malware that can harm your iPhone or Android handset.
Check Point Research says emails impersonating Yahoo skyrocketed in the last three months of 2022.
Cases with the company’s name accounted for 20 percent between October and December.
As result, Yahoo rocketed from 23rd place to number one since the last counterfeit trademark investigation.
Delivery service DHL is not far behind, accounting for 16 percent, as scammers continue to try to mislead people about their packages and deliveries.
Microsoft is third, followed by Google and LinkedIn.
Experts said Yahoo’s name was used to trick victims into bogus prize draws.
Email subject lines suggested that the recipient had won thousands.
And the email itself would say that the draw was organized by Yahoo.
In real cybercrime, the crooks behind it ask for the person’s bank details to transfer their prize.
The email also told them not to tell anyone about their winnings due to “legal issues” in an attempt to carry out the ruse.
“We see hackers trying to lure their targets by offering prizes and significant amounts of money,” said Omer Dembinsky, Data Group Manager at Check Point Software.
Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it almost always is.
You can protect yourself from a brand phishing attack by not clicking on suspicious links or attachments and by always checking the URL of the page you are being directed to.
“Look for spelling mistakes and don’t reveal unnecessary information.”
Best tips and hacks for phones and gadgets
Looking for tips and hacks for your phone? Want to find those secret features in social media apps? We’ve got you covered…
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for the Sun Online Tech & Science team? Email us at [email protected]