Scammers Compromised by Own Malware, Expose $4.67M Operation

CloudSEK uncovered a Pakistan-based family cybercrime network that spread infostealers via pirated software, netting $4.67M and millions of victims. The operation’s secrets were revealed when the scammers themselves were compromised.

Cybersecurity intelligence firm CloudSEK has uncovered a sophisticated, family-run multi-million-dollar cybercrime operation based out of Pakistan. CloudSEK’s TRIAD team’s investigation revealed a syndicate that’s been active for at least five years.

Reportedly, the group’s primary strategy was to exploit people looking for free, pirated software. They used SEO poisoning and forum spam to post links on legitimate online communities and search engines that led to malicious websites.

Here’s an example from the official HONOR UK community forum here a post titled “Adobe After Effects Crack Free Download Full Version 2024” was used as a lure.

And, another one:

These sites tricked users into downloading popular cracked software like Adobe After ...