“Your Private Information Has Been Stolen” Email Scam Explained
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
The internet has enabled new ways for cybercriminals to deceive and extort victims. One common scam tactic is sending threats and blackmail via email. A prevalent email scam claims hackers have compromised your computer and stolen private information. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the “Your Private Information Has Been Stolen” scam email. We’ll explore how this scam works, who is behind it, the damage inflicted, and most importantly, how to protect yourself if targeted.
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Overview of the “Your Private Information Has Been Stolen” Scam
The “Your Private Information Has Been Stolen” email scam is a form of sextortion attack that has been circulating since around 2018. This scam starts with an email claiming that the recipient’s device has been infected with malware, allowing the hacker complete access to their computer, webcam, microphone, and personal information.
The email will contain an old password known to the recipient in order to appear more legitimate. The sender then claims that this access was used to secretly record embarrassing or explicit videos of the recipient through their webcam. The email threatens to send these supposed videos to the recipient’s friends, family, coworkers, and social media followers if a ransom is not paid promptly.
The demanded ransom is usually around $950 dollars to be paid in the digital currency Bitcoin. Bitcoin is the preferred payment method of scammers because it allows virtually anonymous payments that cannot be tracked back to the sender.
The email is crafted to cause feelings of violation, fear, embarrassment, and urgency in the recipient. The threats aim to convince the victim that paying the ransom is the only way to prevent the release of the damaging videos being threatened. In reality, the criminals behind the scam never possessed any sensitive material in the first place.
This is a completely fraudulent scam designed to extort money from victims. The sender does not actually have access to the recipient’s accounts, webcam, or any files on their device, nor have they recorded any videos. The entire email is fabricated with no truth behind the threats being made.
Unfortunately, many recipients of this scam email are fooled into paying the ransom out of fear and embarrassment. The scammers know that a small percentage of people will give in to the demands and send money, making the scam highly profitable for the criminals. This extortion scam persists precisely because some victims believe the threats are real and pay out of panic.
This scam is spread through mass distribution, often utilizing huge databases of email addresses and passwords that were compromised in previous data breaches. Very little individual targeting goes on beyond including an old password known to the recipient. The emails are designed for mass distribution across thousands of inboxes, knowing a small fraction of people will take the threats seriously and pay up.
The “Your Private Information Has Been Stolen” scam email is the work of international cybercriminal groups, mainly located in West Africa and Eastern Europe. The anonymous nature of the internet and crypto payments makes the criminals behind sextortion scams difficult to track down. They utilize encrypted communications and share data breach information readily through black market sites. By demanding payment through irreversible methods like Bitcoin, the scammers can fully hide behind the anonymity of the internet to run their extortion operations from afar with little risk of legal repercussions.
This scam preys on human fear and embarrassment to defraud victims. If you receive this email, it is important not to panic or pay the ransom. The proper response is reporting the scam to authorities, resetting any exposed passwords, and monitoring accounts closely for any suspicious activity just in case. With the right awareness and actions, this deceptive scam can be mitigated and hopefully shut down entirely in the future.
Here is how the “Your Private Information Has Been Stolen” email scam looks:
Subject: Your private information has been stolen because of suspicious events Hi,
I am a hacker, and I have successfully gained access to your operating system. I also have full access to your account.
When I hacked into your account, your password was:
I’ve been watching you for a few months now.
The fact is that your computer has been infected with malware through an adult site that you visited. If you are not familiar with this, I will explain. Trojan Virus gives me full access and control over a computer or other device. This means that I can see everything on your screen, turn on the camera and microphone, but you do not know about it. I also have access to all your contacts and all your correspondence.
Why did your antivirus not detect malware? Answer: The malware I used is driver-based, I update its signatures every 4 hours. Hence your antivirus is unable to detect its presence. I made a video showing how you satisfy yourself in the left half of the screen, and the right half shows the video you were watching at the time.
With one mouse click, I can send this video to all your emails and contacts on your social networks. I can also make public all your e-mail correspondence and chat history on the messengers that you use.
If you don’t want this to happen, transfer $950 in Bitcoin equivalent to my Bitcoin address (if you do not know how to do this, just search “buy bitcoin” on Google).
My Bitcoin address (BTC Wallet) is:
After confirming your payment, I will delete the video immediately, and that’s it. You will never hear from me again. I will give you 50 hours (more than 2 days) to pay. I will get a notice, when you open this email, and the timer will start. Filing a complaint somewhere does not make sense because this email cannot be tracked like my Bitcoin address.
I never make any mistakes. If I find that you have shared this message with someone else, the video will be immediately distributed.
Best regards!
Anatomy of The “Your Private Information Has Been Stolen” Scam
The “Your Private Information Has Been Stolen” scam utilizes several deceptive tactics to try convincing recipients to submit payment. Here is how this scam typically operates:
Spoofed Sender Details
The “From” details in the email header are spoofed to appear anonymous or legitimate. Common false names include:
Anonymous Hackers
Account Security Team
Support@yourbank.com
No-reply@yourISP.com
The scammers attempt to add credibility by matching the sender name to your bank or email provider.
Malware Infection Claims
The email content explains that malware was used to infect your operating system and gain full account access. But it provides dubious technical jargon rather than any specifics.
In reality, this is a mass-sent email with no capability to infiltrate recipients’ devices. Generic malware claims cover for the lack of real hacked content.
Webcam Access Threats
The sender states they used the malware to access your webcam and record explicit videos without your knowledge. Threats to release embarrassing footage to all your contacts are used to incite fear.
Of course, the scammers have no actual video footage. But this threat preys on unease over webcam privacy violations.
Demand for Untraceable Ransom
The email demands payment of $800-$1500 worth of Bitcoin within 1-2 days. Bitcoin is used because it allows essentially anonymous payments.
Victims are given a Bitcoin wallet address to transmit payment. Once sent, Bitcoin transactions are practically impossible to reverse or trace back to a scammer.
Password Inclusion
Some versions state “Your password is XXXXXX”, filling in an old password presumably leaked from a data breach. This aims to add legitimacy as if the account has been compromised.
In reality, the passwords come from massive lists sold on hacker forums. The scammers have no actual access.
Threats to Distribute Content
The recipient is threatened that the footage or stolen documents will be published online or sent to contacts if payment isn’t received in time.
Of course, no files exist to distribute, but fear of exposure is used to coerce victims.
Who is Behind This Scam?
Like many phishing scams, the “Your Private Information Has Been Stolen” extortion email originates from cybercriminal groups in West Africa and Eastern Europe. This includes:
Organized hacking networks in Nigeria and Benin
Russian, Ukrainian, and Romanian cybercrime rings
Individual scammers across the region
It is rarely isolated individuals but rather coordinated efforts between multiple bad actors:
Hackers who acquire massive email lists through data leaks
Coders who develop the malware used in the phishing emails
Groups who rent out their malware for a fee
Scammers who draft the email templates
Operators who distribute the emails en masse
Money launderers who convert Bitcoin to cash
Collaboration between groups in different specialties enables maximization of profits. Very little technological sophistication is actually required since nearly all content in the phishing emails is fabricated.
Damages Inflicted by This Scam
This scam persists because it unfortunately proves profitable for cybercriminals who net thousands of victims. Consider some of the damages inflicted:
Financial Loss from Paying
A small percentage of recipients do end up paying the ransom, incurring an average loss of $800-$1500. For active scammers sending millions of emails, these small conversion rates still produce large profits.
Increased Vulnerability to Other Attacks
Anyone who receives this scam email has likely had their login credentials exposed. This increases vulnerability to other phishing scams utilizing the same credentials. Additional security precautions need to be taken.
Emotional Distress
Beyond financials, this scam can inflict anxiety, fear, and distress in recipients from the disturbing threats of privacy violations. Victims may suffer paranoia over webcam hacking or identity theft.
Loss of Productivity
Time is wasted responding to the scam, changing passwords, and addressing security issues. Energy is diverted from normal work activities, hurting productivity.
Spreading of Malware
Some phishing emails contain links to malware download sites or attachments with viruses. Clicking these links or opening infected files leads to malware infection.
How to Protect Yourself from This Scam
Here are important tips to avoid falling victim if you receive an “Your Private Information Has Been Stolen” phishing email:
Avoid Panicking and Rushing to Judgement
The email content is meant to incite strong emotions like fear, embarrassment, and urgency. Stay calm and remember the threats are not real. Carefully analyze the situation rather than reacting instantly.
Do Not Pay Any Ransom
Payment only makes the threats become real crimes. The scammers do not actually have files to publish, so paying does nothing besides identify you as a victim.
Check Sender Details
Inspect the full header of the email to identify spoofing. Confirm the “From” address matches the legitimate organization. Look for reply addresses going elsewhere.
Do Not Click Links or Attachments
The email may contain malicious links or file attachments. Never click links or download files unless certain the sender is legitimate.
Talk to Contacts
Discuss the email with friends or family targeted. Chances are they received the exact scam email showing it is not a personal attack.
Report the Email
Forward the scam to your email provider, cybersecurity officials, or the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). This helps prevent spread to others.
Change Exposed Passwords
Treat any password in the email as compromised. Change it immediately, especially for email, financial, and other sensitive accounts. Enable two-factor authentication if available.
Run Security Scans
Run full system scans using updated antivirus and anti-malware tools. This detects any threats that got through existing defenses.
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 Private Information Scam
This FAQ answers common questions recipients may have about the “Your Private Information Has Been Stolen” sextortion email scam.
Is my device really hacked?
No, the claims made in the email about hacking your device or accounts are completely fabricated. No malware or compromising material exists. The threats are meant to scare you.
Can they see me through my webcam?
No, the criminals behind this scam have no capability to access your webcam or computer. The claims are fake and used only to extort money.
How did they get my password?
Old leaked passwords are included in scam emails to appear more realistic. Change any exposed passwords and enable multi-factor authentication for stronger security.
What happens if I pay the ransom?
You will simply fall victim to a scam. The criminals will not provide any actual files or videos after payment. More demands for money may follow.
Should I click links in the email?
No, links in scam emails may direct to malware or other phishing sites. Never click links from unknown or suspicious senders.
Can the scammers actually expose videos of me?
No, since the scammers do not have any sensitive videos or files to expose in the first place. All threats to share content are completely empty.
Why do they demand payment in Bitcoin?
Bitcoin allows virtually anonymous payments that cannot be traced back to the scammers. Traditional payments can be better tracked by authorities to identify/stop criminals.
What should I do if I already paid?
Accept that recouping the money is unlikely since crypto payments are irreversible. Notify relevant financial providers and authorities about the scam. Closely monitor accounts for further suspicious activity.
Can authorities catch the scammers?
International scammers are difficult to track down due to encryption and Bitcoin. But reporting scams helps build cases and prevents further victimization over time.
Conclusion
The “Your Private Information Has Been Stolen” scam can undoubtedly cause distress and uncertainty given the disturbing threats made. But understanding the true intent of bad actors allows recipients to respond appropriately rather than giving in to demands.
This scam thrives on the small percentage of recipients who are deceived. But spreading awareness of this fraudulent tactic helps protect greater numbers from financial loss or emotional harm. With proper precautions, this scam can be reported and discarded without becoming the nightmare scenario depicted.
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.
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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.
