Exposing the Customs Scam: How Fraudsters Pose as Courier and Customs Officials to Deceive Victims
About Customs Scam:
The Customs Scam is a type of fraud where the scammers pretend to be from the renowned courier office company (DTDC, etc.), or customs department or other government entities. They try to deceive the targets to transfer the money to resolve the fake customs related concerns. The Research Wing at CyberPeace along with the Research Wing of Autobot Infosec Private Ltd. delved into this case through Open Source Intelligence methods and undercover interactions with the scammers and concluded with some credible information.
Case Study:
The victim receives a phone call posing as a renowned courier office (DTDC, etc.) employee (in some case custom’s officer) that a parcel in the name of the victim has been taken into custody because of inappropriate content. The scammer provides the victim an employee ID, FIR number to prove the authenticity of the case and also they show empathy towards the victim. The scammer pretends to help the victim to connect with a police officer for further action. This so-called police officer shows transparency in his work. He asks him to join a skype video call and he even provides time to install the skype app. He instructs the victim to connect with the skype id provided by the fake police officer where the scammer created a fake police station environment. He also claims that he contacted the headquarters and the victim’s phone number is associated with many illegal activities to create panic to the victim. Then the scammers also ask the victim to give their personal details such as home address, office address, aadhar card number, PAN card number and screenshot of their bank accounts along with their available account balance for the sake of so-called investigation. Sometimes scammers also demand a high amount of money to resolve the issue and create fake urgency to trap the victim in making the payment. He sternly warns the victim not to contact any other police officials or professionals, making it clear that doing so would only lead to more trouble.
Analysis & Findings:
After receiving these kinds of complaints from multiple sources, the analysis was done on the collection of phone numbers from where the calls originated. These phone numbers were analysed for alias name, location, Telecom operator, etc. Further, we have verified the number to check whether the number is linked with any social media account on reputed platforms like Google, Facebook, Whatsapp, Twitter, Instagram, Linkedin, and other classified platforms such as Locanto.
- Phone Number Analysis: Each phone number looks authentic, cleverly concealing the fraud. Sometimes scammers use virtual/temporary phone numbers for these kinds of scams. In this case the victim was from Delhi, so the scammer posed themselves from Delhi Police station, while the phone numbers belong to a different place.
- Undercover Interactions: The interactions with the suspects reveals their chilling way of modus operandi. These scammers are masters of psychological manipulation. They threaten the victims and act as if they are genuine LEA officers.
- Exploitation Tactics: They target unsuspecting individuals and create fear and fake urgency among the targets to extract sensitive information such as Aadhaar, PAN card and bank account details.
- Fraud Execution: The scammers demand for the payment to resolve this issue and they make use of the stolen personally identifiable information. Once the victims transfer the money, the fraudsters cut off all the communication.
- Outcome for Victims: The scammers act so genuine and they frame the incidents so realistic, victims don't realise that they are trapped in this scam. They suffer severe financial loss and psychological trauma.
Recommendations:
- Verify Identities: It is important to verify the identity of any individual, especially if they demand personal information or payment. Contact the official agency directly using verified contact details to confirm the authenticity of the communication.
- Education on Personal Information: Provide education to people to protect their personal identity numbers like Aadhaar and PAN card number. Always emphasise the possible dangers connected to sharing such data in the course of phone conversations.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Prompt reporting of suspicious phone calls or messages to relevant authorities and consumer protection agencies helps in tracking down scammers and prevents people from falling. Report to https://cybercrime.gov.in or reach out to helpline@cyberpeace.net for further assistance.
- Enhanced Cybersecurity Measures: Implement robust cybersecurity measures to detect and mitigate phishing attempts and fraudulent activities. This includes monitoring and blocking suspicious phone numbers and IP addresses associated with scams.
Conclusion:
In the Customs Scam fraud, the scammers pretend to be a custom or any government official and sometimes threaten the targets to get the details such as Aadhaar, PAN card details, screenshot of their bank accounts along with their available balance in their account. The phone numbers used for these kinds of scams were analysed for any suspicious activity. It is found that all the phone numbers look authentic concealing the fraudentent activities. The interactions made with them reveals that they create fearness and urgency between the individuals. They act as if they are genuine officer’s and ask for money to resolve this issue. It is important to stay vigilant and not to share any personal or financial information. When facing these kinds of scams, report and spread awareness among individuals.
Related Blogs
Introduction:
A new Android malware called NGate is capable of stealing money from payment cards through relaying the data read by the Near Field Communication (“NFС”) chip to the attacker’s device. NFC is a device which allows devices such as smartphones to communicate over a short distance wirelessly. In particular, NGate allows forging the victims’ cards and, therefore, performing fraudulent purchases or withdrawing money from ATMs. .
About NGate Malware:
The whole purpose of NGate malware is to target victims’ payment cards by relaying the NFC data to the attacker’s device. The malware is designed to take advantage of phishing tactics and functionality of the NFC on android based devices.
Modus Operandi:
- Phishing Campaigns: The first step is spoofed emails or SMS used to lure the users into installing the Progressive Web Apps (“PWAs”) or the WebAPKs presented as genuine banking applications. These apps usually have a layout and logo that makes them look like an authentic app of a Targeted Bank which makes them believable.
- Installation of NGate: When the victim downloads the specific app, he or she is required to input personal details including account numbers and PIN numbers. Users are also advised to turn on or install NFC on their gadgets and place the payment cards to the back part of the phone to scan the cards.
- NFCGate Component: One of the main working features of the NGate is the NFCGate, an application created and designed by some students of Technical University of Darmstadt. This tool allows the malware to:
- Collect NFC traffic from payment cards in the vicinity.
- Transmit, or relay this data to the attacker’s device through a server.
- Repeat data that has been previously intercepted or otherwise copied.
It is important to note that some aspects of NFCGate mandate a rooted device; however, forwarding NFC traffic can occur with devices that are not rooted, and therefore can potentially ensnare more victims.
Technical Mechanism of Data Theft:
- Data Capture: The malware exploits the NFC communication feature on android devices and reads the information from the payment card, if the card is near the infected device. It is able to intercept and capture the sensive card details.
- Data Relay: The stolen information is transmitted through a server to the attacker’s device so that he/she is in a position to mimic the victim’s card.
- Unauthorized Transactions: Attackers get access to spend money on the merchants or withdraw money from the ATM that has NFC enabled. This capability marks a new level of Android malware in that the hackers are able to directly steal money without having to get hold of the card.
Social Engineering Tactics:
In most cases, attackers use social engineering techniques to obtain more information from the target before implementing the attack. In the second phase, attackers may pretend to be representatives of a bank that there is a problem with the account and offer to download a program called NGate, which in fact is a Trojan under the guise of an application for confirming the security of the account. This method makes it possible for the attackers to get ITPIN code from the sides of the victim, which enables them to withdraw money from the targeted person’s account without authorization.
Technical Analysis:
The analysis of malicious file hashes and phishing links are below:
Malicious File Hashes:
csob_smart_klic.apk:
- MD5: 7225ED2CBA9CB6C038D8
- Classification: Android/Spy.NGate.B
csob_smart_klic.apk:
- MD5: 66DE1E0A2E9A421DD16B
- Classification: Android/Spy.NGate.C
george_klic.apk:
- MD5: DA84BC78FF2117DDBFDC
- Classification: Android/Spy.NGate.C
george_klic-0304.apk:
- MD5: E7AE59CD44204461EDBD
- Classification: Android/Spy.NGate.C
rb_klic.apk:
- MD5: 103D78A180EB973B9FFC
- Classification: Android/Spy.NGate.A
rb_klic.apk:
- MD5: 11BE9715BE9B41B1C852
- Classification: Android/Spy.NGate.C.
Phishing URLs:
Phishing URL:
- https://client.nfcpay.workers[.]dev/?key=8e9a1c7b0d4e8f2c5d3f6b2
Additionally, several distinct phishing websites have been identified, including:
- rb.2f1c0b7d.tbc-app[.]life
- geo-4bfa49b2.tbc-app[.]life
- rb-62d3a.tbc-app[.]life
- csob-93ef49e7a.tbc-app[.]life
- george.tbc-app[.]life.
Analysis:
Broader Implications of NGate:
The ultramodern features of NGate mean that its manifestation is not limited to financial swindling. An attacker can also generate a copy of NFC access cards and get full access when hacking into restricted areas, for example, the corporate offices or restricted facility. Moreover, it is also safe to use the capacity to capture and analyze NFC traffic as threats to identity theft and other forms of cyber-criminality.
Precautionary measures to be taken:
To protect against NGate and similar threats, users should consider the following strategies:
- Disable NFC: As mentioned above, NFC should be not often used, it is safe to turn NFC on Android devices off. This perhaps can be done from the general control of the device in which the bursting modes are being set.
- Scrutinize App Permissions: Be careful concerning the permission that applies to the apps that are installed particularly the ones allowed to access the device. Hence, it is very important that applications should be downloaded only from genuine stores like Google Play Store only.
- Use Security Software: The malware threat can be prevented by installing relevant security applications that are available in the market.
- Stay Informed: As it has been highlighted, it is crucial for a person to know risks that are associated with the use of NFC while attempting to safeguard an individual’s identity.
Conclusion:
The presence of malware such as NGate is proof of the dynamism of threats in the context of mobile payments. Through the utilization of NFC function, NGate is a marked step up of Android malware implying that the attackers can directly manipulate the cash related data of the victims regardless of the physical aspect of the payment card. This underscores the need to be careful when downloading applications and to be keen on the permission one grants on the application. Turn NFC when not in use, use good security software and be aware of the latest scams are some of the measures that help to fight this high level of financial fraud. The attackers are now improving their methods. It is only right for the people and companies to take the right steps in avoiding the breach of privacy and identity theft.
Reference:
- https://www.welivesecurity.com/en/eset-research/ngate-android-malware-relays-nfc-traffic-to-steal-cash/
- https://therecord.media/android-malware-atm-stealing-czech-banks
- https://www.darkreading.com/mobile-security/nfc-traffic-stealer-targets-android-users-and-their-banking-info
- https://cybersecuritynews.com/new-ngate-android-malware/
Introduction
A famous quote, “Half knowledge is always dangerous”, but “Too much knowledge of anything can lead to destruction”. Recently very infamous spyware and malware named WyrmSpy and Dragon Egg were invented by a Chinese group of hackers APT41. The APT41 is a state-endorsed Clandstein active group based in the People’s Republic of China that has been active since 2012. In contrast to numerous countries-government supported, APT has a footprint record jeopardising both government organisations for clandestine activities as well as different private organisations or enterprises for their financial gain. APT41 group aims at Android devices through spyware wyrmspy and dragon egg, which masquerades as a legitimate application. According to the U.S. jury legal accusation from 2019 to 2020, the group was entangled in threatening over more than 100 public and private individuals and organisations in the United States and around the world.Moreover, a detailed analysis report was shared by the Lookout Threat Researchers, that has been actively monitoring and tracking both spyware and malware.
Briefing about how spyware attacks on Android devices take place
To begin with, this malware imitates a real source Android application to show some sort of notification. Once it is successfully installed on the user’s machine, proclaims multiple device’s permission to enable data filtration.
Wyrmspy complies with log files, photos, device locations, SMS(read and write), and audio recordings. It has also authenticated that there are no detection malware activities found on google play even after running multiple security levels. These malicious things are made with the intent to obtain rooting access privileges to the device and monitor activities to the specified commands received from the C2 servers.
Similarly, Dragon Egg can collect data files, contacts, locations, and audio recordings, and it also accesses camera photos once it successfully trade-off the device. Dragon egg receives a payload that is also known as “smallmload.jar”, which is either from APK(Android Packet Kit).
WyrmSpy initially masquerades as a default operation system application, and Dragon Egg simulates a third-party keyboard/ messaging application.
Overview of APT41 Chinese group background
APT41 is a Chinese-based stealth activity-carrying group that is said to be active since mid-2006. Rumours about APT41 that it was also a part of the 2nd Bureau of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Staff Department’s (GSD) 3rd Department. Owning to that fact, 2006 has seen 140+ organisations’ security getting compromised, ranging from 20 strategically crucial companies.APT is also recognised for rationally plundering hundreds of terabytes of data from at least 141 organisations between 2006 and 2013. It typically begins with spear-phishing emails to the targeted victims. These sent emails contain official templates along with language pretending to be from a legitimate real source, carrying a malicious attachment. As the victim opens the attached file, the backdoor bestows the control of the targeted machine to the APT groups machine. Once there is an unauthorised gain of access, the attacker visits and revisits the victim’s machine. The group remains dormant for lengthy durations, more likely for months or even for years.
Advisory points need to adhere to while using Android devices
- The security patch update is necessary at least once a week
- Clearing up unwanted junk files.
- Cache files of every frequently used application need to clear out.
- Install only required applications from
Google play store. - Download only necessary APK files only it comes from trusted resources.
- Before giving device permission, it is advisable to run your files or URLs on VirusTotal.com this website will give a good closure to the malicious intent.
- Install good antivirus software.
- Individuals need to check the source of the email before opening an attachment to it.
- Never collect or add any randomly found device to your system
- Moreover, the user needs to keep track of their device activity. Rather than using devices just for entertainment purposes, it is more important to look for data protection on that device.
Conclusion
Network Crack Program Hacker Group (NCPH), which grew as an APT41 group with malicious intent, earlier performed the role of grey hat hacker, this group somehow grew up greedy to enhance more money laundering by hacking networks, devices, etc. As this group conducts a supply chain of attacks to gain unauthorised access to the network throughout the world, targeting hundreds of companies, including an extensive selection of industries such as social media, telecommunications, government, defence, education, and manufacturing. Last but not least, many more fraud-making groups with malicious intent will be forming and implementing in the future. It is on individuals and organisations to secure themselves but practise basic security levels to safeguard themselves against such threats and attacks.
Introduction
The world has been witnessing various advancements in cyberspace, and one of the major changes is the speed with which we gain and share information. Cyberspace has been declared as the fifth dimension of warfare, and hence, the influence of technology will go a long way in safeguarding ourselves and our nation. Information plays a vital role in this scenario, and due to the easy access to information, the instances of misinformation and disinformation have been rampant across the globe. In the recent Russia-Ukraine crisis, it was clearly seen how instances of misinformation can lead to major loss and harm to a nation and its subjects. All nations and global leaders are deliberating upon this aspect and efficient sharing of information among friendly nations and inter-government organisations.
What is IW?
IW, also known as Information warfare, is a critical aspect of defending our cyberspace. Information Warfare, in its broadest sense, is a struggle over the information and communications process, a struggle that began with the advent of human communication and conflict. Over the past few decades, the rapid rise in information and communication technologies and their increasing prevalence in our society has revolutionised the communications process and, with it, the significance and implications of information warfare. Information warfare is the application of destructive force on a large scale against information assets and systems, against the computers and networks that support the four critical infrastructures (the power grid, communications, financial, and transportation). However, protecting against computer intrusion, even on a smaller scale, is in the national security interests of the country and is important in the current discussion about information warfare.
IW in India
The aspects of misinformation have been recently seen in India in the form of the violence in Manipur and Nuh, which resulted in a massive loss of property and even human lives. A lot of miscreants or anti-national elements often seed misinformation in our daily news feed, and this is often magnified by social media platforms such as Instagram or X (formerly known as Twitter) and OTT-based messaging applications like WhatsApp or Telegram during the pandemic. It was seen nearly every week that some or the other new ways to treat COVID-19 were shared on Social media, which were false and inaccurate, especially in regard to the vaccination drive. A lot of posts and messages highlighted that the Vaccine is not safe, but a lot of this was a part of misinformation propaganda. Most of the time, the speed of spread of such episodes of misinformation is rapid and is often spread by the use of social media platforms and OTT messaging applications.
IW and Indian Army
Former Meta employees have recently come up with allegations that the Chinar Corp of the Indian Army had approached the social media giant to suppress some pages and channels which propagated content that may be objectionable. It is alleged that the formation made such a request to propagate its counterintelligence operations against Pakistan. The Chinar Corps is one of the most prestigious formations of the Indian Army and has the operational area of Kashmir Valley. The instances of online grooming and brainwashing have been common from the anti-national elements of Pakistan, as a faction of youth has been engaged in terrorist activities directly or indirectly. Various messaging and social media apps are used by the bad actors to lure in innocent youth on the fake and fabricated pretext of religion or any other social issue. The Indian Army had launched an anti-misinformation campaign in Kashmir, which aimed to protect Kashmiris from the propaganda of fake news and misinformation, which often led to radicalisation or even riots or attacks on defence forces. The aspect of net neutrality is often misused by bad actors in areas which are sociological, critical or unstable. The Indian Army has created special offices focusing on IW at all levels of formations, and the same is also used to eradicate all or any fake news or fake propaganda against the Indian Army.
Conclusion
Information has always been a source of power since the days of the Roman Empire. Control, dissemination, moderation and mode of sharing of information plays a vital role for any nation both in term of safety from external threats and to maintain National Security. Information Warfare is part of the 5th dimension of warfare, i.e., Cyberwar and is a growing concern for developed as well as developing nations. Information warfare is a critical aspect which needs to be incorporated in terms of basic training for defence personnel and law enforcement agencies. The anti-misinformation operation in Kashmir was primarily focused towards eradicating the bad elements after repealing Article 377, from cyberspace and ensuring harmony, peace, stability and prosperity in the state.
References
- https://irp.fas.org/eprint/snyder/infowarfare.htm
- https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/metas-india-team-delayed-action-against-army-led-misinfo-op-in-kashmir-us-news-report/article67352470.ece
- https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/facebook-instagram-block-handles-of-chinar-corps-no-response-from-company-over-a-week-says-officials-1910445-2022-02-08
