Warning! Pegasus Spyware Scam Uses Your Home’s Photo Against You
Written by: Stelian Pilici
Published on:
A terrifying new variant of the Pegasus spyware extortion scam has emerged, using photos of victims’ homes pulled from mapping services to increase pressure. Emails now open with chilling messages like “Look familiar?” above an image of your street or residence.
This highly personalized sextortion scheme aims to create urgency by pretending the scammers know where you live. But in truth, home images are easily obtainable online through public sources. Don’t let false claims about recording you backed by public pictures push you into rash decisions.
This article reveals how scammers exploit home images and Pegasus malware claims to fabricate threats. Armed with insights into their tactics, their smoke and mirrors intimidation attempts lose all sway over you.
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Overview of the Pegasus Spyware Scam Using Home Images
This recently emerged extortion scheme opens emails with a chilling personalized message like “Look familiar?” above an image of the recipient’s home or street. This aims to shock victims by implying their residence is under surveillance.
The email then claims the sender used Pegasus spyware to hack and monitor the recipient’s devices, recording inappropriate videos through their webcam for months. Threatening to send edited clips to all the victim’s contacts, the scammer demands payment of around $2,000 in untraceable Bitcoin within 24 hours.
Vague warnings are made about avoiding involving authorities and keeping the message confidential. Ominous threats refer to automatically releasing the supposed sex tapes if demands aren’t met or the email shared. This aims to prevent scrutiny and create urgent pressure to pay the ransom.
In reality, residential images included in the emails are easily obtained from public mapping sources like Google Street View using just a home address. The supposed inappropriate videos do not actually exist either – the criminals have no access to victims’ accounts or webcams.
By personalizing emails with home images sourced online, the scammers aim to trick recipients into thinking their residence is under close surveillance. But addresses are readily available information, allowing anyone to search and locate images of a home.
Unfortunately, discovering a photo of your own home coupled with warnings about Pegasus spyware makes the supposed hacking and recording claims seem plausible. This is what scammers are counting on – the shock factor of the personalized image distracting critical thinking.
In truth, distributing real Pegasus malware requires advanced skills and resources not possessed by random online scammers. Their claims of recording your activity are fabrication, with public pictures providing no evidence of real surveillance or leverage.
Do not let personalized details like images sourced from your address lull you into accepting the message’s bold claims at face value. This is precisely the reaction scammers hope for, relying on deception about their capabilities to trick victims into urgent payment.
But scrutinizing the anatomy of this scam exposes how they actually have no access, videos, or control over you. The home image offers no proof other than being obtainable online through public sources. They cannot follow through on threats since it’s all manipulation.
By understanding where these photos truly come from and the limits of real Pegasus spyware distribution, recipients can protect themselves from knee-jerk reactions. Don’t allow scammers to intimidate you with your own address and fictional surveillance claims.
How the Home Images Pegasus Scam Unfolds
Understanding the careful choreography of online extortion schemes helps protect against hasty reactions. Here’s a closer look at how the Pegasus variant using home images operates:
Step 1: Obtain Victims’ Names and Addresses
Scammers first acquire names and physical addresses through data breaches, public records, or social engineering, compiling a list of potential targets.
Step 2: Search Public Sources for Images of Homes
Using mapping sites like Google Street View or Zillow, the scammers input addresses to locate and save images of targets’ actual residences.
Step 3: Craft Emails Personalized with Recipients’ Names and Home Photos
Messages are prepped opening with recipients’ names and images of their home or street for shock value.
Step 4: Pretend Home Image Shows Close Surveillance
The email acts like sending a photo of your residence proves sophisticated hacking capabilities and ongoing monitoring.
Step 5: Threaten Exposure Through Fake Pegasus Videos
Echoing similar scams, they threaten embarrassing videos recorded through Pegasus spyware as blackmail.
Step 6: Demand Untraceable Ransom Paid Quickly
Payment in Bitcoin is demanded within 24 hours to preserve anonymity and fund other criminal efforts.
Step 7: Insist Scrutiny Will Trigger Video Release
They warn sharing the message or contacting police will unleash exposure, deterring investigation.
Step 8: Make Ominous Threats of Life Destruction
Vague warnings of destroying your life help manufacture urgency to pay up or face fabricated consequences.
Step 9: Send Variations Targeting More Victims
Successful tactics are repeated, targeting more recipients pulled from data breach lists with similar home image emails.
Step 10: Quietly Collect Any Ransoms Paid
Scammers monitor their Bitcoin payment address to reap profits from those scared into paying up.
As we can see, the inclusion of home images provides no actual evidence of access or control. Publicly available photos only increase intimidation through deception. Do not let them manipulate you with smoke and mirrors.
As we can see, residential images provide no actual evidence of access or surveillance. Public pictures from mapping sites only intimidate through deception.
What to Do if You Receive This Scam Email Threatening Home Exposure
Discovering an image of your own residence used in a chilling extortion scheme can be deeply unsettling. It’s natural to feel violation and urgency to make the threats stop. However, it’s crucial not to let scammers provoke rash decisions they are counting on.
Here are the smartest steps to take if confronted with this scam variant:
1. Avoid Communicating With the Sender
Do not reply to the email, as this confirms your address is active. Completely ignore all future contact attempts to deny scammers engagement.
2. Do Not Pay the Demanded Ransom
Wiring funds only enables and enrichers criminals, leading to potential repeat targeting. No real leverage exists behind their threats.
3. Run Security Scans to Check for Malware
Scan your devices using updated antivirus software to be safe, but true Pegasus infection is unlikely from random scammers.
4. Change Online Account Passwords if Concerned
Refresh logins as a precaution, avoiding password reuse across sites. Enable two-factor authentication where possible.
5. Report the Sextortion Attempt to Authorities
Contact agencies like the FBI IC3 at www.ic3.gov to aid investigation and tracking of home image extortion schemes.
6. Expose the Home Photo Source to Contacts
Show friends and family the image comes from public mapping sites, not actual surveillance. This reveals the deception.
7. Warn Contacts Who Could Also Be Targeted
Let loved ones know to ignore similar emails using home images and Pegasus threats. Share awareness.
8. Contact Services to Remove Your Home Images
Opting out of public home imagery in Google Maps, Zillow etc removes scammers’ ammo.
Be vigilant about app permissions, location sharing, social media oversharing, and info accessible online tied to your address.
10. Seek Emotional Support If Needed
Confide in trusted connections for reassurance. You have 100% control over this – the scammers have no real leverage.
Remember, residential photos provide no evidence of actual access or hacking. The criminals’ threats are empty fabrications relying on trickery. Avoid reactionary choices and instead take smart steps to protect yourself while exposing their deception. power. Take smart steps to protect yourself and others instead of reacting hastily out of fear.
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.
1. Are the home images sent by scammers obtained through hacking?
No. The photos are sourced from public mapping sites by searching your address, not illegal access to device cameras or accounts.
2. Can I get mapped images of my home removed?
Yes, you can opt-out of public home imagery on Google Maps and sites like Zillow. This denies scammers future ammunition.
3. What should I do if I already paid the ransom?
Immediately contact your bank about possibly reversing the transaction, then report it to the FBI and warn loved ones who may be targeted next using the same tactics.
4. Are the videos the scammers threaten to leak real?
No. With no actual malware infection, the supposed inappropriate videos of you do not exist. It is complete fabrication with no supporting evidence.
5. What happens if I don’t pay the ransom?
Nothing. The threats are a bluff with no leverage or ability to follow through. The scammers will simply move on to target more potential victims.
6. Could my devices really be infected with Pegasus malware?
Extremely unlikely. Distributing real Pegasus requires millions in sophisticated skills and resources criminals do not possess to remotely hack you.
7. Should I factory reset my devices if I receive this scam?
Resetting is unnecessary since no real malware infection ever occurred. But you can run scans using trusted AV software and change passwords as precautions.
8. What details can I safely share to expose this scam?
The residential image itself proves it comes from public mapping sources, not actual access. Sharing this example with contacts reveals the deception.
9. Who should I report this sextortion scheme to?
Notify the FBI IC3, your local authorities, and email providers. Reporting helps authorities build cases against scammers exploiting home images.
10. How can I protect myself from future extortion attempts?
Increase privacy precautions online, avoid oversharing details like your address, report all sextortion attempts, and warn others to recognize such scams.
The Bottom Line on the Home Images Pegasus Scam
Being confronted with photos of your own home in a threatening email can be deeply unsettling. However, residential images actually provide zero evidence of surveillance or hacking capabilities.
Scammers exploit public home photos coupled with Pegasus spyware’s dangerous reputation for deception. But their supposed access and videos of you are pure fiction.
Don’t let scammers provoke you into rash decisions through smoke and mirrors intimidation tactics. Spread awareness on their methods to shut down these predatory extortion schemes for good.
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 Stelian Pilici
Stelian leverages over a decade of cybersecurity expertise to lead malware analysis and removal, uncover scams, and educate people. His experience provides insightful analysis and valuable perspective.
