Russians initiate unauthorized acquisition of "virtual identities"
Warning! Scammers are on the prowl, stealing digital identities from Russian citizens using facial recognition schemes on messaging platforms.
As per a report by "Novyi Den" to RIA, scammers lurk on portals with ads, posing as sellers. Once potential buyers are directed to a separate messenger, they receive a phishing site link. Victims are tricked into entering their card details and transferring money, believing it's necessary to complete the operation.
Next, they are asked to 'confirm their identity' by turning on their camera, placing their nose in the center of a green zone, and showing their face from all angles. A notification then pops up, asking them to close the page, and voila! – their biometric data is sent to the scammers. In essence, these scam artists are stealing their 'digital face.'
Pictures taken during the 'identification' process can be used to steal accounts in services that require video identity confirmation, gain access to banking apps, and exploit facial recognition services.
Chelyabinsk, Viktor Elyshev
Be wary of the risks associated with sharing biometric data online: biometric spoofing, AI-generated forgeries, database breaches, privacy concerns, and social engineering. To safeguard against these threats, use secure authentication methods, ensure privacy protections are in place, and be alert to requests for biometric data online.
Stay vigilant, internet friends! Remember: if something feels fishy, it probably is.
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© 2025, RIA "Novyi Den"
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It is important to be aware of cybersecurity risks, as scammers are using technology to steal digital identities. In the case mentioned, they are using facial recognition schemes on messaging platforms, claiming it is necessary to confirm a user's identity during a transaction. This practice can lead to the theft of biometric data, which can then be used for illegal activities like account takeovers and accessing banking apps. To protect oneself, it is essential to employ secure authentication methods, prioritize privacy protections, and scrutinize requests for biometric data online.
