The New Blackmail Porn Scam

We've had several clients threatened with their so-called computer habits in the past few weeks. Though the emails have differed, the theme is the same: "We know you've been to porn websites and we can expose you. Send us bitcoin or gift cards and we'll keep your secret safe." While these emails are alarming and offensive, it's just a scam.

These scammers will claim to know your password, but the password is always wrong. They may also use "spoofing" to make the email look like it is coming from you. Spammers forge the “From:” address for the email they send. This technique is referred to as spoofing. It does not mean your email has been hacked.

Here is an example of one of the emails a client forwarded us:

Here is another one received by a client yesterday:

These emails are from scammers trying to scare you into sending them gift cards or bitcoin. You can simply delete these emails and rest assured, they have nothing on you, and they have not hacked into your computer or accounts. Give us a call if you have any questions.