FBI Internet Crime Report
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) released its annual Internet Crime Report which provides information on the number and types of cybercrime complaints received each year, as well as other data related to internet crime. The report is designed to help individuals identify potential risks associated with online activities, such as malicious software or fraudulent activity. It also serves to inform policy makers about emerging trends in cybercrime and how best to address them.
In 2019, according to the FBI’s report, over 467 thousand victims reported suffering losses totaling more than $3.5 billion due to various forms of internet-facilitated crimes; ransomware was among the most prominent threats at that time. In 2020 however, there has been a significant rise in cryptocurrency-related scams: people have lost money when investing into fake Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs), phishing attacks where criminals impersonate legitimate companies offering services such as crypto mining or wallet storage etc., pump-and-dump schemes etc..
Cryptocurrency users should take extra precautions while using digital currency platforms by keeping their wallets secure through two factor authentication methods whenever possible; making sure they are dealing only with reputable vendors/exchanges; avoiding clicking on suspicious links sent via email or social media messages; not disclosing personal information like passwords over unencrypted networks etc.. People who suspect being involved in an internet scam should contact their local law enforcement agency for assistance immediately after discovering any potential fraud attempt against themselves or others within their community.
