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A Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) scam is a type of cyberattack where a perpetrator intercepts and manipulates communication between two parties without their knowledge. This type of attack can lead to severe consequences, including data breaches, identity theft, and financial losses.
Understanding what a MitM scam entails and recognising the warning signs can help individuals and
organisations protect themselves from falling victim to such schemes.
READ OUR MOST RECENT PROJECT FOR MORE CONTEXT:
MODUS OPERANDI:
Interception:
The attacker first intercepts the communication between the victim and the intended recipient.
This can be done by compromising a network or device, or by using techniques such as DNS spoofing or ARP poisoning.
Decryption:
If the communication is encrypted, the attacker may attempt to decrypt it.
This can be done by exploiting vulnerabilities in encryption protocols or using stolen encryption keys.
Manipulation:
Once the communication is intercepted, the attacker can alter the data being transmitted.
This could involve changing the content of an email, modifying transaction details, or injecting malicious code.
Relay:
The attacker relays the manipulated communication to the intended recipient, who remains unaware of the tampering.
RECENT CASE MANAGED BY THE CYBER TEAM:
Our client made a legitimate business transaction of half a million rand to a construction company.
Unbeknownst to the construction company, their emails were being intercepted by a scammer.
The scammer took the invoice intended for our client and altered the banking details before sending it.
As a result, our client paid a substantial amount into the scammer's account and the intended recipient remained out of pocket.
It was only later that both parties realised the emails had been compromised and the money had been diverted to the scammer.
RED FLAGS:
Unusual Network Activity:
Spikes in data usage
Unfamiliar devices connected
Irregular network traffic
Unexpected Disconnections:
Frequent, unexplained disconnections from secure sites
Slow Internet Speed:
Sudden decrease in speed owing to intercepted communication
Strange Pop-Ups or Redirects:
Unusual pop-ups
Unexpected website redirects
Email Discrepancies:
Slight changes in email addresses
Unexpected attachments
Unusual language in emails
Login Issues:
Difficulty logging into accounts
Notifications of unsuccessful login attempts
SAFETY MEASURES AGAINST THESE SCAMS:
Use Strong Encryption:
Ensure that all sensitive communication is encrypted using strong encryption protocols.
Use secure websites (HTTPS) and enable encryption for email and other communications.
Verify Certificates:
Always verify the authenticity of SSL/TLS certificates when accessing websites.
Do not ignore browser warnings about certificate issues.
Secure Wi-Fi Networks:
Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive transactions.
Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection.
Update Software:
Update all software regularly, including operating systems, browsers, and security applications, to patch vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication:
Use two-factor authentication (2FA) for online accounts to add an extra layer of security.
Monitor Network Activity:
Monitor network activity for any signs of unauthorised access or unusual behaviour.
More and more companies are contacting SSS regarding these "man-in-the-middle" scams.
This alarming trend underscores the increasing prevalence and sophistication of such cyberattacks, which pose significant risks to businesses of all sizes. In response, our Cybercrime unit has been exceptional in their efforts to investigate these crimes, providing critical support and expertise to affected organisations.
Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Group.
This group is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.
HOW TO JOIN THE MIKE BOLHUIS DAILY PROJECTS WHATSAPP GROUP:
Follow the link to our WhatsApp group:
"JOIN" to ensure you never miss our daily updates.
You will receive automatic notifications as soon as a new project is posted.
CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.
ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
Mobile: +27 82 447 6116
E-mail: mike@mikebolhuis.co.za
Fax: 086 585 4924
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EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.
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