“I Need To Start Our Conversation With Bad News For You” Scam
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
The “I Need to Start Our Conversation with Bad News for You” email scam is a deceptive phishing campaign targeting many innocent victims. This fraudulent email threatens to leak explicit videos of you to extort money. Here’s what you need to know about recognizing and stopping this scam.
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Overview of the Scam
The “I Need to Start Our Conversation with Bad News for You” email scam starts off with an ominous header implying unpleasant information is about to be delivered to the recipient. The fraudulent message pretends to be from a stranger claiming they regretfully must inform the victim about a supposed serious issue.
These scam emails allege that full access was already obtained to all devices and systems the target uses for internet browsing and online activities. The criminals assert they have been closely tracking the recipient’s web surfing behaviors for an extended period by remotely monitoring laptops, phones and tablets without authorization.
As supposed evidence of this infiltration, the message may cite examples of the victim’s recent browsing history or hint at visiting embarrassing websites. Building upon spying accusations, the email then makes threats that inappropriate videos were recorded through secretly accessed device webcams.
Weaving an elaborate fiction designed to provoke panic, the fraudulent note describes hypothetical scenarios of the victim being filmed while watching pornography online – implying their webcam was enabled to capture salacious activity. The deceptive narrative may claim multiple explicit videos were edited together showing private self-pleasuring.
The scam email goes on to threaten immediate distribution of the fictitious embarrassing videos to the victim’s entire contact list, including colleagues, friends and family members. Trying to intimidate, it warns the inappropriate content will also be posted publicly across social media platforms for the world to see. The sender pretends the target will be ruined unless demands are urgently met.
Pushing the deception even further, the phishing scam insists malware was already installed on the operating systems of every internet-connected gadget owned by the recipient. Technical jargon about Trojan viruses and other hacker tools seeks to reinforce perceptions of compromise.
By pretending the infection continually refreshes signatures to avoid detection, the criminals hope to spark overwhelm victims into panicking over supposedly losing control over personal data, devices and reputation. Bogus claims are made that immense amounts of private information have already been completely extracted for abuse.
Ultimately this builds up to ransom payment demands, with the fraudsters requiring $500 to $2000 or more paid within 24 to 48 hours in untraceable cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin. Threats are made to immediately release all the fictional videos and personal data if the funds are not promptly received per the anonymous payment instructions provided.
Some versions of the “I Need to Start Our Conversation with Bad News for You” phishing email may acknowledge that receiving such an alarming note likely sparks skepticism. To overcome doubts, the scam message tries to convey authenticity using personal information like partial passwords and feigning empathy for the victim’s potential shock.
However all the elaborate hacking accusations, threats of leaked media, stolen data warnings, and looming deadlines have absolutely no truth behind them whatsoever. The scammers completely fabricate this barrage of technical jargon, video extortion plots and demands solely to trick frightened recipients into paying the ransom out of confusion and fear.
By heartlessly preying on people’s anxieties surrounding privacy violations and embarrassment, the fraudsters wage psychological warfare through deception and intimidation. Hoping a small percentage of recipients get scared enough into complying with payment instructions, the crooks simply pocket Bitcoin from those tricked by the fake threats and move on to target more potential victims. This allows them to reap major profits with minimal effort invested into blasting out scam emails en masse.
Here is an example excerpt of one of these fraudulent phishing emails using claims of illicit video blackmail to extort money:
Subject: FINAL WARNING.
Hi there! Unfortunately, I need to start our conversation with bad news for you. Around few months back I managed to get full access to all devices of yours, which are used by you on a daily basis to browse internet.
Afterwards, I could initiate monitoring and tracking of all your activities on the internet.
I am proud to share the sequence of how it happened: In the past I bought from hackers the access to various email accounts (today, that is rather a simple thing to do online). Clearly, it was not hard at all for me to log in to your email account (xxxxxxx@xxxxxxxx).
A week after that, I had already managed to effortlessly install Trojan virus to Operating Systems of all devices that are currently in your use, and as result gained access to your email. To be honest, that was not really difficult at all (because you were eagerly opening the links from your inbox emails). I know, I am a genius. ^^
With help of that software, I can gain access to all controllers in your devices (such as video camera, keyboard and microphone). As result, I downloaded to my remote cloud servers all your personal data, photos and other information including web browsing history. Likewise, I have complete access to all your social networks, messengers, chat history, emails, as well as contacts list. My intelligent virus unceasingly refreshes its signatures (due to its driver-based nature), and hereby stays unnoticed by your antivirus software.
Herbey, I believe that now you finally start realizing how I could easily remain unnoticed all this while until this very letter… While collecting information related to you, I had also unveiled that you are a true fan of porn sites. You truly enjoy browsing through adult sites and watching horny vids, while playing your dirty solo games.
Bingo! I also recorded several filthy scenes with you in the main focus and montaged some dirty videos, which demonstrate your passionate masturbation and cum sessions.
In case you still don’t believe me, all I need is just one-two mouse clicks to make all your unmasking videos become available to your friends, colleagues, and even relatives. Well, if you still doubt me, I can easily make recorded videos of your orgasms become a public. I truly believe that you surely would avoid that from happening, taking in consideration the type of the XXX videos you love watching, (you are clearly aware of what I mean) it will result in a huge disaster for you.
Well, there is still a way to settle this tricky situation in a peaceful manner: You will need to transfer $960 USD to my account (refer to Bitcoin equivalent based on the exchange rate at the moment transfer), so once funds transfer is complete, I will straight away proceed with deleting all that dirty content from servers once and for all.
Afterwards, you can consider that we never met before. You have my honest word, that all the harmful software will also be deactivated and deleted from all your devices currently in use. Worry not, I keep my promises. That is truly a win-win solution that comes at a relatively reduced cost, mostly knowing how much effort I spent on monitoring your profile and traffic for a considerably long time. In event that you have no idea about means of buying and transferring bitcoins – don’t hesitate to use any search engine for your assistance (e.g., Google, Yahoo, Bing, etc.).
My bitcoin wallet is as follows: 19yaJM8qhsyXnwoQP7zQbMkqJStoMYxPmE
I have allocated 48 hours for you to do that, and the timer started right after you opened this very email (2 days to be exact).
Don’t even think of doing anything of the following: *Abstain from attempting to reply me (this email was created by me inside your inbox page and the return address was generated accordingly). *Abstain from attempting to get in touch with police or any other security services. Moreover, don’t even think of sharing this to you friends. Once I discover this (apparently, that is absolutely easy for me, taking in consideration that I have complete control over all systems you use) – your kinky video will straight away be made public. *Don’t even think of attempting to find me – that is completely useless. Don’t forget that all cryptocurrency transactions remain completely anonymous. *Don’t attempt reinstalling the OS on all your devices or getting rid of them. That won’t lead you to success either, because I have already saved all videos at my remote servers as a backup.
Things you should not be concerned about: *That your funds transfer won’t reach my wallet. – Worry not, I can see everything, hence after you finish the transfer, I will get a notification right away (trojan virus of mine uses a remote-control feature, which functions similarly to TeamViewer). *That I will still distribute your videos although you make the funds transfer. – My word, I have no intention or interest in continuing making your life troublesome. Anyway, If I truly wanted that, it would happen long time ago without me notifying you!
Everything can be settled in a peaceful and just way! And lastly… make sure you don’t get caught afterwards in such type of incidents anymore! My fair advice – ensure you change all your passwords on a regular basis.
How the “I Need to Start Our Conversation with Bad News for You” Email Scam Works
The cybercriminals behind this scam utilize devious tricks to extort money from victims. Here is how they execute this phishing scam campaign:
1. Obtain Email Addresses
Scammers acquire enormous batches of potential targets through various deceitful means, including:
Buying stolen email lists on the black market dark web
Hacking into databases and websites to steal user account info
Using email harvesting tools to scrape addresses found online
Exploiting vulnerabilities in websites to access contact data
Getting email lists leaked from data breaches
2. Craft a Threatening Extortion Email
The criminals carefully compose the phishing email to provoke fear. The message pretends to have used malware to access devices and record inappropriate videos of the recipient through the webcam.
The email threatens to publicly share the supposed explicit videos and private data unless the ransom is paid in Bitcoin within 48 hours. The amount demanded typically ranges from $500 to $2000.
3. Demand Anonymous Ransom Payment
The scammers insist on payment through Bitcoin due to its anonymity. Bitcoin transactions are very difficult to trace back to a scammer.
The email includes a Bitcoin wallet address to submit the ransom funds to. This allows frightened victims to pay the criminals while avoiding more traceable bank transactions.
4. Wait for Victims to Pay Up
After blasting out countless intimidating phishing emails, the scammers await payments to roll in from panicked recipients who believe the threats. Even a 0.5% response rate results in major ill-gotten gains from large scam batches.
They never actually carry out threats of leaking or selling data, since the entire extortion premise is fabricated. Their sole aim is to trick victims out of money through deception.
What to Do If You’re Targeted by This Scam
If you receive this phishing email demanding Bitcoin, here are important steps to take:
Don’t Pay the Ransom
No matter how frightening the email seems, do not pay the ransom under any circumstances. The scammers never truly accessed your devices or recorded illicit videos of you. Paying them will only finance more scam operations.
Report the Email as Phishing
Forward the scam email to your email provider’s abuse department so they can block the fraudulent account. Reporting phishing scams helps authorities disrupt their operations.
Run Anti-Virus Software
It’s highly doubtful any malware is installed as claimed, but running an anti-virus scan doesn’t hurt. Make sure your security software is up-to-date.
Monitor Accounts Closely
Carefully check bank statements and credit card statements for any unauthorized payments. Watch for any odd activity that could indicate a real compromise.
Ignore Follow-Up Extortion Emails
If the first scam email goes unpaid, the crooks may send more threats demanding bitcoin. Continue to ignore these demands – do not engage with the frauds.
Is Your Device Infected? Check for Malware
If your device is running slowly or acting suspicious, it may be infected with malware. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is a great option for scanning your device and detecting potential malware or viruses. The free version can efficiently check for and remove many common infections.
Malwarebytes can run on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Depending on which operating system is installed on the device you’re trying to run a Malwarebytes scan, please click on the tab below and follow the displayed steps.
Malwarebytes For WindowsMalwarebytes For MacMalwarebytes For Android
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Windows to remove malware
Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.
Download Malwarebytes for Windows
You can download Malwarebytes by clicking the link below.
After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.
You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
Enable “Rootkit scanning”.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.
To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Quarantine detected malware
Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
Restart your computer.
When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.
Your computer should now be free of trojans, adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Mac to remove malware
Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.
You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “Continue“, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.
The Malwarebytes Welcome screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
Click on “Scan”.
To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Quarantine”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
Your Mac should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Scan your phone with Malwarebytes for Android to remove malware
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
Your phone should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
Frequently Asked Questions About the “I Have Bad News” Sextortion Scam
This phishing scam raises many concerns. Here are comprehensive answers to key questions recipients have about the fraudulent “I Have Bad News” extortion email:
What exactly is the “I Have Bad News” webcam blackmail scam?
This is a phishing campaign where scammers send messages pretending to have illicit videos of recipients captured through hacked webcams to extort money. The email threatens to publicly share the supposed explicit videos unless bitcoin is paid. But it’s completely fabricated with no truth behind the threats.
How does the “I Have Bad News” sextortion bitcoin scam work?
The email claims remote hacking access was achieved enabling video monitoring through webcams. It threatens to virally release the fictional embarrassing videos online unless the demanded ransom is paid in anonymous cryptocurrency within 24-48 hours. No real recordings exist.
Are the hackers’ claims in the “I Have Bad News” email real?
No, the scammers have not actually hacked anyone’s devices, accessed webcams, recorded inappropriate videos, or obtained personal data as falsely claimed. No evidence exists of any real malware infections either. It’s all lies crafted to trick victims.
Should I pay the bitcoin ransom demanded by the “I Have Bad News” email?
No, never pay ransoms to unknown scammers, especially through untraceable cryptocurrency which cannot be recovered. The extortion threats are completely bogus to manipulate you. Paying them will only enable more of these phishing scams.
What if I already paid the ransom to the “I Have Bad News” email sender?
If you did already pay, contact your bank and the bitcoin exchange you used to see if the transaction can be halted, reversed or refunded. Beware of follow-up demands for more money. You can report it to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.
How are the criminals sending out the fake “I Have Bad News” extortion email?
These phishing scams blast out thousands of emails obtained through illegal hacking, compromised credentials, malware spamming networks, exploiting websites, purchasing stolen data, and other deceitful tactics. Stolen contacts also spread from data breaches.
What measures can I take to avoid this “I Have Bad News” scam?
Be vigilant and cautious when opening unverified emails. Look for poor grammar, threats demanding urgent bitcoin payments, claims of recording you illegally, lack of proof, and other red flags. Securing devices and accounts with strong multifactor authentication and updated software can also thwart many attack vectors.
Who can I contact if targeted by the “I Have Bad News” sextortion email?
You can report these phishing scams to the Anti-Phishing Working Group (info@apwg.org), Google Safe Browsing, PhishTank, and the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (www.ic3.gov).
Will law enforcement likely catch the “I Have Bad News” email scammers?
Tracing and prosecuting these kinds of extortion scams can be quite challenging for global authorities across jurisdictions. Scammers use technical tricks to mask locations while demanding untraceable cryptocurrency ransom payments. But increased reporting and shared threat intelligence helps agencies piece together connections within broader cybercrime networks.
The Bottom Line
The “I Need to Start Our Conversation with Bad News for You” email scam preys on victims’ fears of embarrassing or explicit videos being leaked. But in reality, the scammers haven’t accessed anyone’s accounts – they simply hope to dupe recipients through deception and threats.
Recognize these messages as fraudulent extortion attempts. Avoid falling for their demands, report the phishing scams, and implement stronger security best practices. Make others aware of these cybercriminal tactics to help prevent further victims.
How to Stay Safe Online
Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:
Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.
It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.
Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.
Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.
Be careful when installing programs and apps.
Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."
Install an ad blocker.
Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.
Be careful what you download.
A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.
Be alert for people trying to trick you.
Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.
Back up your data.
Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.
Choose strong passwords.
Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.
Be careful where you click.
Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.
Don't use pirated software.
Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.
To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.
Meet Thomas Orsolya
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
