Cybercriminals Now Using Snail Mail for Extortion - Beware of Fake Ransom Demands

Cybercriminals have found a new way to trick companies into paying fake ransoms – by sending physical letters in the mail. Instead of hacking networks or deploying ransomware, fraudsters are simply claiming they have stolen sensitive data and demanding money to prevent its release.

  • Fake Extortion Letters: Fraudsters are mailing letters to executives, claiming they’ve hacked the company’s systems and stolen sensitive information.
  • Bogus Ransom Demands: The letters demand payments between $250,000 to $350,000 in Bitcoin, with a QR code linking to a crypto wallet.
  • No Real Breach: Security experts confirm these letters do not come from the BianLian ransomware group and the claims are completely fake.
  • Tactics to Create Fear: The letters are marked "TIME SENSITIVE – READ IMMEDIATELY" to pressure victims. Some people may believe them simply because they arrive as physical mail.
  • How They Got Your Address: Scammers might be using historical data leaks to find names and addresses of company executives.

This new scam proves that cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics. With increasing awareness of ransomware, scammers are now resorting to fake claims in physical mail. Stay alert, verify threats before acting, and never pay scammers. These letters are fraudulent, and no real hacking has taken place.

If you receive such a letter, do not respond or pay the ransom. Instead, report it to law enforcement or cybercrime authorities. Educate your team to recognize these scams and ensure your company follows strong cybersecurity practices to prevent actual breaches.

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