Don't Fall For The "Your System Has Been Cracked" Email Scam

The inbox notification pops up, and your pulse quickens reading it:

“Your system has been cracked.”

Apprehensively opening the email, your gut twists into knots. An ominous unseen figure claims to have infiltrated your device, recorded illicit videos through your webcam, and copied sensitive personal files.

Now this digital intruder is threatening to humiliate you by sending the explicit videos to all your contacts unless you pay a hefty Bitcoin ransom.

You feel violated, exposed, and extorted. But is this faceless scammer telling the truth? Should you comply with their demands out of fear? Or is the wisest course of action seeing through the deception?

This brazen phishing scam has been exploiting countless recipients through intimidation and technological smoke-and-mirrors. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll reveal the inner workings of the “Your System Has Been Cracked” email scheme and equip you to guard against its manipulative tactics.

Here’s everything you need to know about spotting the red flags, protecting your privacy, and fighting back against this form of virtual extortion trying to profit off false threats.

This Article Contains:

Anatomy of The “Your System Has Been Cracked” Email Scam

The “Your System Has Been Cracked” scam message utilizes well-calculated psychological manipulation and technological intimidation tactics to coerce recipients into paying ransom out of fear. Understanding the key ingredients that comprise this devious social engineering attack is crucial to seeing through the deception.

Here is how the “Your System Has Been Cracked” scam email looks:

Subject: Re:

Good day!

Here is the last warning.

Your system has been cracked. We have copied the entire information from your device to our servers. Besides, we have recorded the video from your camera with you watching a porn movie.

My virus has infected your device via an adult website that you recently visited.

I can share details in case if you don’t know how it works. A Trojan virus grants me entire access and control over your device. As a result, I can see your screen, activate the camera and the microphone and you won’t even know about it.

I have captured a video from your screen and the camera and have made a video where one part of a screen demonstrates you masturbating, and another part shows a porn video that you were watching at that time.

I can see the entire list of your contacts in the phone and the social networks.

I can send this video to all the contacts in your phone, the E-mail and the social networks in a single click. Moreover, I can send the data of your E-mail and your messengers to anybody.

This would ruin your reputation once and for all.

In case if you wish to prevent such consequences, do the following-

Transfer 1300 USD (American dollars) to my Bitcoin- wallet.

(If you do not know how to do this, write in a search string in Google: «Buy bitcoin”).

My Bitcoin Wallet (BTC Wallet): 17HfUrTgPiTgAep2dFTrSAskf8CyM5SdR

Immediately after crediting of payment I shall erase your video and shall not bother you anymore.

You have 50 hours (a little more than 2 days) to make the payment.

I receive an automatic notification of reading of this letter. The timer will also automatically launch right after you read this E-mail.

Don’t try to complain anywhere- my BTC –wallet cannot be traced and an E-mail that sent you the letter is created automatically-any response would be senseless.

Should you try to share this E-mail with somebody, the system will automatically send a request to the servers and they will start sending the entire information to social networks.

The change of passwords of social networks, an E-mail and the device would be senseless either as the whole data has already been downloaded to cluster of my servers.

I wish you luck and don’t do something stupid. Consider your reputation.

Fictional Malware Infection Claims

A core component of the scam is the claim that sophisticated malware was secretly installed on the recipient’s device after visiting an adult website. This fictional malware supposedly granted the sender remote access without the victim’s knowledge.

By asserting they covertly infected the target’s computer or phone with advanced malware, the scammers establish credibility for the surveillance and access required to support their further threats.

Fabricated Illicit Video Recording

Building upon the imaginary malware ploy, the sender threatens to have used their purported access to activate the recipient’s webcam and microphone secretly to record explicit videos and audio.

These videos are described in graphic and demeaning detail – often involving pornography and masturbation – intending to disgust, shame, and shock the recipient. Even though no actual recordings exist, the vivid descriptions aim to make the nonexistent videos seem real.

Embellished Data Breach Claims

For additional intimidation, the email often claims that in addition to recording compromising videos, the fictional malware also allowed the sender to steal personal files and browsing history from the target’s device.

In some variations, the sender embellishes further by threatening to have harvested the recipient’s entire contact list and account credentials from various social media, email, and financial accounts.

Threats of Reputational Ruin

The devastating impact of the scammers’ threats comes not just from leaking fabricated adult videos, but the promise to expose the videos and stolen personal data to everyone in the victim’s life – friends, family, coworkers, and social media contacts.

By weaponizing the intimate relationships and professional reputation of the recipient, the email intimidates victims with the specter of total public humiliation and ruin if they don’t comply with the demands.

Demand for Untraceable Ransom Payment

The sender demands payment of a ransom, typically around $500 to $2000 dollars’ worth of the untraceable cryptocurrency Bitcoin. Short payment deadlines of 24-48 hours create urgency and overwhelm careful evaluation.

Bitcoin allows fast, anonymous collection of extortion payments while providing no recourse for victims once the currency is transferred out of their accounts. The scammers want digital currency that is essentially like paying in cash.

Technobabble Threats of Anonymity

The email uses lots of technical jargon about encryption, malware networks, Bitcoin wallets, and spoofing techniques being employed to warn victims that contacting authorities is pointless.

These baseless claims about total anonymity for the criminals and untraceability of the sender email address, malware, and Bitcoin payment aim to deter recipients from contacting law enforcement for assistance.

By blending privacy violation, public shaming, reputational damage, and demands for untraceable payment, this scam email skillfully combines multiple forms of manipulation and intimidation tactics. But understanding the formula makes it possible to spot the deception.

Red Flags: How To Spot “Your System Has Been Cracked” Scam Emails

Now that you understand the formula behind this phishing tactic, here are key signs to help detect “Your System Has Been Cracked” extortion attempts:

Generic greetings like “Your system has been cracked” rather than your name. Scammers blast out emails en masse.
Claims of adult site usage and video recording that can’t be substantiated. Sensational threats devoid of proof.
Contradictory claims of total device access yet limited to just webcam spying and data copying. Why not more if fully hacked?
Broken English or awkward phrasing. Many scammers operate internationally.
Demand for payment via untraceable cryptocurrency only. Real hackers would hesitate to reveal their wallets.
Threats of public shaming and data leaks that can’t be fulfilled. All bluff with no intent or ability to post anything real.
Countdown timer pushing haste and overwhelming thoughtful deliberation.
Discouraging contact with police and claims they can’t identify the criminals. Scammers don’t want victims talking to authorities.
Assertions of total technical prowess yet amateur mistakes like traceable sender emails.
No actual evidence provided of videos, credentials, or breached data. Lots of bark but no bite.

Spotting the deceptive scare tactics and gaping plot holes pokes holes in the smokescreen designed to suspend logic and panic recipients into paying up.

How “Your System Has Been Cracked” Email Extortion Scams Work

The “Your System Has Been Cracked” scam utilizes deception, intimidation, and psychological manipulation to override reason and extract ransom payments. Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:

1. Scammers Purchase Stolen Email Credentials

Criminals acquire massive databases of usernames and passwords from the dark web and leaked data breaches. This gives them a starting point for potential targets.

2. Malware Infection Story Fabricated

A fictional tale is devised involving the recipient’s device being infected with sophisticated malware after visiting an adult site, providing secret surveillance access.

3. Adult Videos Falsehood Spun

Imaginary illicit videos supposedly recorded through the fictional malware are described in graphic detail, intending to disgust and shame the recipient.

4. Data Breach Embellished

For extra intimidation, the email claims personal files, browsing history, and contacts were also stolen by the malware, even without any actual hacking occurring.

5. Extortion Amount Calculated

A ransom figure is chosen, typically between $500-$1500 worth of Bitcoin, high enough for profit but not so large as to seem implausible.

6. Threats Tailored to Recipient

Scammers customize threats for maximum impact based on demographic data associated with the recipient’s compromised credentials.

7. Countdown Timer Initiated

A short 1-2 day deadline introduces urgency intended to eliminate careful evaluation of the threats and demands.

8. Bitcoin Payment Directions Provided

Payment in anonymous, irreversible cryptocurrency allows scammers to quickly collect ransoms without being tracked or later identified.

9. Intimidation to Deter Reporting

The email discourages contacting police and claims they won’t uncover the criminals anyway, trying to deter victims from talking to authorities.

10. Emails Sent En Masse

Spoofed emails are spammed out by the thousands using botnets and malware, targeting as many potential victims as possible.

11. Criminals Collect Ransoms

Scared recipients who take the bait and pay the ransom have their Bitcoin payments withdrawn and laundered by the scammers, who disappear without releasing anything.

Understanding the deliberate schemes to generate panic and override critical thinking is key to seeing through the technically sophisticated façade.

Safeguard Yourself Against “Your System Has Been Cracked” Threats

If you receive a questionable email claiming your device has been compromised, here are tips to protect yourself from manipulation:

1. Don’t Open Unexpected Attachments or Links

Avoid downloading unfamiliar email attachments or clicking links, which risks real malware infection. Use extreme caution with anything unsolicited.

2. Run Antivirus Scans

Conduct comprehensive malware checks using updated antivirus software to look for any signs of actual breaches. But don’t expect anything legitimate to appear.

3. Change Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication

As a precaution, reset passwords on sensitive accounts and turn on 2FA for strengthened login security. This adds protection.

4. Don’t Reply to the Email

Replying could confirm your email as active. Instead, report the message as spam/phishing to your email provider.

5. Watch for Further Suspicious Activity

Carefully monitor financial statements and account activity for any fraudulent charges. But real criminals are unlikely to exist.

6. Never Pay Extortion Demands

Paying ransoms fuels further extortion attempts and funds shady criminal enterprises. Stand your ground.

7. Involve Authorities If Truly Concerned

The email discourages police contact, a huge red flag. Law enforcement provides guidance on cyber threats.

Staying calm and thinking critically rather than reacting hastily is crucial to seeing past the manipulation in phishing scams like this. Don’t hand over the keys to your peace of mind so easily.

What To Do If You Already Paid The “Your System Has Been Cracked” Extortionists

Here is a guide on what to do if you already fell victim and paid the ransom demanded in the “Your System Has Been Cracked” email scam:

1. Contact Your Bank

If you paid recently via bank account, contact your bank immediately to try stopping/reversing the transaction before the funds are withdrawn. Act quickly, as timing is important.

2. Report Fraud to Cryptocurrency Exchange

If you paid in Bitcoin, report the scam to the cryptocurrency exchange you used so they can attempt tracking the wallet address and potentially freeze the funds. The sooner the better.

3. Monitor Accounts Closely

Carefully check bank and credit card statements for any further suspicious charges. Scammers may attempt more fraud once they’ve secured an initial payment.

4. Reset All Account Passwords

Change passwords on all email, social media and financial accounts as a precautionary measure. Use unique complex passwords for each account. Enable two-factor authentication where possible for added security.

5. Run Antivirus Scans

Conduct comprehensive malware scans on all computers and devices used to make the payment. Quarantine or delete anything suspicious found. Scammers may have accessed more than they claimed.

6. Place Fraud Alerts and Credit Freezes

Put a fraud alert on your credit reports and consider freezing credit reports to protect your identity and prevent fraudulent accounts from being opened.

7. Avoid Further Extortion Payouts

Disconnect from the email account used and do not respond to any further demands for money. The scammers won’t actually release anything since they have nothing real.

8. Report the Scam to Authorities

File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov and notify local law enforcement. This helps authorities track and prosecute cyber extortion scams.

9. Seek Legal Counsel if Needed

For serious extortion threats, consider consulting an attorney experienced in cybercrime matters for guidance on handling threats and minimizing potential damages.

10. Learn from This Experience

Reflect on missteps that allowed you to be deceived. Implement stronger security habits going forward and share your experience to help others avoid the same pitfalls.

Stay vigilant following any cyber extortion incident and take proactive measures to protect your identity, accounts, and data from further misuse. With caution and wisdom, you can recover both financial and peace of mind.

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 is one of the most popular and most used anti-malware software for Windows, and for good reasons. It is able to destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss, without costing you absolutely nothing. 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 Windows.

You can download Malwarebytes by clicking the link below.

MALWAREBYTES FOR WINDOWS DOWNLOAD LINK
(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)
Double-click on the Malwarebytes setup file.

When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the MBSetup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.

You may be presented with a User Account Control pop-up asking if you want to allow Malwarebytes to make changes to your device. If this happens, you should click “Yes” to continue with the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.

When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes setup wizard which will guide you through the installation process. The Malwarebytes installer will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program on, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.

On the next screen, click “Install” to install Malwarebytes on your computer.

When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen.
Click on “Scan”.

Malwarebytes is now installed on your computer, to start a scan click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes will automatically update the antivirus database and start 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 on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Quarantine”.

When the Malwarebytes scan is finished scanning it will show a screen that displays any malware, adware, or potentially unwanted programs that it has detected. To remove the adware and other malicious programs that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.

Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files and registry keys that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.

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:

Run a computer scan with ESET Online Scanner
Ask for help in our Windows Malware Removal Help & Support forum.

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.

MALWAREBYTES FOR MAC DOWNLOAD LINK
(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes for Mac)
Double-click on the Malwarebytes setup file.

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.

MALWAREBYTES FOR ANDROID DOWNLOAD LINK
(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes for Android)
Install Malwarebytes for Android on your phone.

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.
Ask for help in our Mobile Malware Removal Help & Support forum.

Frequently Asked Questions About the “Your System Has Been Cracked” Email Scam

1. What is the “Your System Has Been Cracked” email scam?

The “Your System Has Been Cracked” scam is a type of sextortion phishing attack where cybercriminals send an email claiming to have infected your device with malware that gave them total access. They threaten to release illicit videos and personal data unless a ransom is paid.

2. What are the key characteristics of the scam email?

Claims of malware infection granting remote access after visiting adult sites
Threats to release adult videos recorded through webcam
Warnings of stealing personal files and account credentials
Demand for ransom payment in Bitcoin within a short deadline
Discouraging contact with law enforcement or cybersecurity firms
Intimidation tactics implying complete monitoring and anonymity

3. What is the typical ransom amount demanded?

The ransom demands are often around $500 to $2,000 worth of Bitcoin. The extortionists want to maximize profit while still making the amount seem plausibly affordable.

4. How do criminals carry out this scam?

They send mass emails using stolen credential lists purchased on the dark web. Deception and technological intimidation tricks victims into paying the ransom, when no actual hacking takes place.

5. What persuasive tactics does the email use?

Claims of total access to personal privacy and accounts
Threats to release adult videos recorded through webcam
Warnings of exposing browsing history and contacts
Short deadline to eliminate careful deliberation
Demands for untraceable crypto payment

6. Why Bitcoin ransom payment?

Bitcoin enables fast, anonymous payments perfect for quickly collecting ransoms without being tracked or identified. Fiat currency is more traceable and reversible.

7. Are the threats in the email real?

No, the threats of having illicit videos and stolen data are a complete bluff. The scammers do not actually have anything to release about the recipient. Their goal is to fabricate threats that spark panic.

8. Should I pay the ransom?

No, you should never pay the ransom demands. This will likely result in more extortion attempts in the future. Without anything real to release, paying only enables further predatory scamming.

9. What should I do if I get the scam email?

Do not respond to the email. Report it as phishing/spam. Run malware scans as a precaution. Change account passwords and enable two-factor authentication where possible. Watch for further scam attempts.

10. What if I already paid the ransom?

If you fell victim, contact authorities to report it. Enhance account security, monitor statements closely for further fraud, and avoid any additional extortion payouts demanded.

Staying vigilant against phishing and safeguarding your data makes you a much harder target for “Your System Has Been Cracked” extortion scammers seeking easy paydays through deception.

The Bottom Line on Defeating “Your System Has Been Cracked” Scam Emails

Receiving a brazen email claiming your system was cracked by sophisticated hackers can certainly be unnerving. But reacting hastily based on fear alone plays right into the scammer’s intentions.

When faced with sensational cyber extortion scams built on deception, logic is the most powerful antidote. Scrutiny dispels the fiction woven to exploit anxieties. Analysis unravels the web of embellished technical prowess. And courage steadies the nerves rattled by threats of public shaming.

While the email wants to seize control of your thinking with ominous hacking assertions and looming deadlines, you maintain command of your mind, values and actions. Take a breath. Step back. Give the content and demands thoughtful deliberation rather than a panicked response.

Talk to trusted confidants to restore perspective. Let reason intervene against manipulative mind games seeking to obscure truth with chaos. Keep your wits and don’t relinquish them cheaply.

The bravado of elite hacking melts away when boldly challenged for substantive proof. Even a perceived Goliath can be felled by a few smooth stones of logic.

Stay vigilant, but fear not.

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

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.

Don’t Fall for the “Your System Has Been Cracked” Email Scam