Don't Get Duped By Fake "Your System Has Been Hacked" Emails

Your heart drops reading the subject line:

“Your System Has Been Hacked.”

With apprehension, you open the email. Immediately, a sinister unseen force seems to be tightening its grip around your throat.

The anonymous sender claims to have infected your computer with malware and secretly spied on your private activities through your webcam. They say they’ve recorded you in compromising situations – footage that could upend your life.

Now they’re demanding a hefty ransom in untraceable Bitcoin to destroy the videos. You have less than 3 days to comply or the incriminating content gets blasted across the internet and into the hands of authorities.

Feeling violated and terrified, paying the money seems like your only option for escaping total ruin. But is this faceless extortionist telling the truth? Can you trust them to actually delete the data if you give in to their demands?

This insidious email scam has been terrorizing countless recipients by weaponizing fear, uncertainty, and intimidation for profit. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll reveal the inner workings of the “Your System Has Been Hacked” phishing scheme and equip you to protect yourself.

Here’s everything you need to know about spotting the warning signs, guarding against manipulation, and fighting back against this brazen extortion tactic trying to scare you into submission.

This Article Contains:

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

The “Your System Has Been Hacked” scam message is carefully engineered to shock, unnerve, and ultimately extract money from recipients by holding their privacy and reputations for ransom. This is what makes it such an effective phishing tactic.

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

Subject: Re:

Your system has been hacked.

You has been under our surveillance for an extended period of time.
The virus was infected by an adult website you visited.
I’ve recorded several videos of you jerking off to highly controversial adult videos.

All data from your devices has been copied to my servers.

I have access to all your messengers, social media, email, chat history and contact list.
I also have access to all of your personal data, which I’ve already copied to my servers.

I can also put all your data in the public domain.

Illegal material in your country has been found on your device. You could get in trouble with the law.

And also I have all the records of your calls, which I will also put in public access to the Internet if you do not go to my conditions.

I know all your secrets.

I could ruin your life forever.

My virus is constantly updating its signature (it is driver based) so it remains invisible to your system.
I think you can see why I went undetected until this letter.

There’s no point in changing passwords, all the data’s already copied to my servers.

I guess you really don’t want that to happen.

Let’s solve it this way: you transfer me 1300 US dollars (in bitcoin equivalent at the exchange rate at the time of transfer), and I will immediately remove all this dirt from my servers.
After this, we will forget about each other. I always keep my word.

My bitcoin wallet for payment: 116A33YsSrr8xCccVYkHnzmAdpK2Q3qVFk
If you don’t know how to transfer money and what Bitcoin is. Use Google.

I give you 50 hours (a little over 2 days) to complete the payment.
I get an automatic notification when I read this email. Similarly, the timer will automatically start after you read the current email.

If payment is not confirmed after the given time, all data will be published on the public internet, sent to law enforcement agencies and sent to all your contacts.

Don’t waste your time sending me a reply because it won’t work (the sender address is automatically created).
Furthermore, do not try to complain anywhere because this text and my bitcoin address cannot be traced anyway.

Do not try to complain anywhere, as the wallet is untraceable, the mail from where the letter came from is also untraceable and created automatically, so there is no point in writing to me.
Do not attempt to contact the police or other security services, otherwise your data will be published.

Let’s examine the key elements that make up this social engineering and fear-based scam:

Malware Infection Claims

The email claims that clicking on a malicious link or visiting an adult website led to sophisticated malware being downloaded onto the recipient’s computer. This malware supposedly gave the attacker remote access, control over the webcam, and ability to monitor all activity without detection.

Compromising Video Threats

The sender threatens that through the secret malware infection, they’ve recorded videos of the recipient in compromising sexual situations as blackmail material. This creates feelings of violation, shame, and urgency to comply with demands.

Data Breach Assertions

The email claims that the malware has copied over sensitive personal information from the recipient’s devices and online accounts, including contact lists, messages, and browsing history.

Reputational Ruin Warnings

The sender threatens to not just leak the adult videos, but also expose personal secrets and data to the public internet as well as send it all to the recipient’s friends, family, coworkers, and authorities.

Untraceable Bitcoin Ransom Demand

The extortionist demands payment equivalent to $1,300 or more in untraceable Bitcoin within 50 hours. This limited window adds pressure and limits careful thinking.

Anonymity and Encryption Techno-Babble

The email warns that contacting authorities is futile since the sender address, malware, and Bitcoin wallet can’t be traced. This is further intimidation to deter reporting.

By combining intrusion, surveillance, blackmail, extortion, and public shaming, this scam is fine-tuned to overwhelm critical thinking and compel victims to pay the ransom out of desperation. But understanding the various psychologically manipulative elements at play is key to defusing their power.

Spotting Red Flags in “Your System Has Been Hacked” Scam Emails

Now that you know the blueprint of this phishing scam, here are key warning signs to help detect “Your System Has Been Hacked” extortion attempts:

Generic greetings like “Your system has been hacked” 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 leak promises that can’t be fulfilled. Bluffs with no intent or ability to actually post data.
Countdown timers and high-pressure threats designed to overload critical thinking with haste and panic.
Claims that contacting police is futile. Scammers don’t want victims talking to authorities.
Assertions of total technical prowess yet amateur mistakes like sender email addresses that can indeed be traced.
No actual evidence provided of videos, access to accounts, or breached data. Lots of bark with no bite.

Seeing through the gaping holes in this shoddily constructed deception helps dispel the smokescreens of technobabble designed to bewilder recipients and short circuit logic.

How The “Your System Has Been Hacked” Email Scam Works

The “Your System Has Been Hacked” scam is carefully orchestrated to manipulate emotions in order to override reason and obtain ransom payments. Here is an in-depth look at 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 fertile starting point to target potential victims.

2. Malware Infection Story Fabricated

A fictional narrative is crafted involving the recipient’s device being infected with sophisticated malware providing secret surveillance access via the webcam.

3. Adult Videos Falsehood Spun

Imaginary illicit videos recorded through the fictional malware are described in graphic detail, intended to disgust and mortify the recipient.

4. Data Breach Embellished

For extra intimidation, the email claims that personal files, browsing history, and contact info have also been stolen, even without any hacking actually occurring.

5. Extortion Amount Calculated

A ransom amount is chosen, often between $500-$1500 worth of Bitcoin. Not so large as to seem implausible, but substantial enough to turn a profit.

6. Threats Tailored to Recipient

The scammer personalizes threats for maximum impact based on demographic data associated with the recipient’s stolen credentials.

7. Deadline Timer Initiated

A roughly 2-3 day deadline elevates urgency and limits objective scrutiny. Psychological pressure overtakes reasoned discernment.

8. Bitcoin Payment Directions Provided

Demand for anonymous, irreversible cryptocurrency payment locks in funds for the scammers and hides their trail once paid.

9. Intimidation to Deter Reporting

The email discourages contacting police and claims they won’t identify the criminals anyway. This is reverse psychology to protect the scam.

10. Emails Sent En Masse

Spoofed emails are spammed out to stolen email lists by the thousands, using botnets and malware to scale up the number of potential victims targeted.

11. Criminals Collect Ransoms

Once scared recipients pay up, the scammers withdraw and launder the Bitcoin payments, disappearing without releasing anything.

Understanding how calculated psychological manipulation, deception, and intimidation fuel this scam makes it less frightening. Knowledge dispels the technobabble smoke and mirrors.

Protecting Yourself From “Your System Has Been Hacked” Extortion Threats

If you receive a suspicious email claiming you are being watched or monitored, here are tips to protect yourself from being deceived, panicked, and exploited:

1. Don’t Open Unsolicited Attachments or Links

Opening unfamiliar email attachments or links risks malware infection. Be extra cautious of anything unprompted.

2. Scan Devices for Malware

Run comprehensive antivirus scans to check for any signs of actual malware or breaches. But don’t expect anything real to be found.

3. Change Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Reset account passwords as a precaution. Enable 2FA for added login security on sensitive accounts. This further safeguards you.

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

Monitor financial statements and account activity closely for any signs of fraud. But chances are criminals don’t have anything real.

6. Never Pay Extortion Demands

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

7. Contact Authorities If Truly Concerned

The email tries to deter police involvement, which is a red flag. Law enforcement can provide guidance dealing with cyber threats.

Remaining calm and avoiding overreaction is key to logically recognizing the manipulative scare tactics in phishing scams like this. Don’t let brazen claims of surveillance bully you into hasty compliance.

What To Do If You Already Paid The Your System Has Been Hacked” Email Scam

If you already fell victim and paid the ransom demanded in the “Your System Has Been Hacked” email scam, here are steps to take:

1. Contact Your Bank

If you paid the ransom recently via bank account, contact your bank immediately to try stopping or reversing the transaction before the funds are withdrawn. Act quickly, as time is critical.

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 monitor bank and credit card statements for any further suspicious charges. Scammers may attempt more fraud once they have 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 anywhere 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 don’t have anything real to begin with.

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 Hacked” Email Scam

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

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

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

Claims of secret surveillance through malware and webcam access
Threats to release recordings and personal information
Demand for ransom payment in Bitcoin within a short deadline
Warnings not to contact law enforcement
Intimidation tactics implying complete monitoring

3. What is the typical ransom amount demanded?

The ransom demands are often around $1,000 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 to stolen credential lists purchased on the dark web. Deception and fear-mongering tricks victims into paying the ransom, when no actual hacking takes place.

5. What persuasive tactics does the email use?

Claims of compromised personal privacy to create feelings of violation
Graphic descriptions of adult videos tailored to shock and shame
Threats to send data to friends/family for maximum embarrassment
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 intimate videos and 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 protecting your data makes you a much harder target for “Your System Has Been Hacked” extortion scammers seeking easy paydays through deception.

The Bottom Line on Defeating “Your System Has Been Hacked” Scams

Being targeted by a ominous “Your System Has Been Hacked” email can certainly be jarring and distressing. But reacting with undue haste or gullibility only feeds the scammer’s intentions.

When faced with such brazen scams built on manipulation, the most powerful weapon is a level head. Logic dispels the fiction woven to exploit fears. Scrutiny unravels the web of deception. Patience defuses the pressure tactics pushing rashness. And courage steadies the nerves rattled by imagined threats of ruin.

While the email’s sinister development and looming deadline are crafted to seize control of your thinking, you maintain command of your mind, values and actions. Take a breath. Step back. Give the content and demands thoughtful analysis rather than a panicked response.

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

The sensational claims of surveillance dissolve under the light of honest scrutiny. The posturing giants of tech prowess shrink when boldly challenged for proof. Even Goliath can be felled by a steady hand and a few smooth stones of reason.

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 Get Duped by Fake “Your System Has Been Hacked” Emails