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How Clearing Digital Mess Can Help You Save Money and Feel Better


 

Many people today are struggling with digital clutter. This means having too many files, photos, apps, and emails saved on phones or computers. A new survey shows that more than three out of four people have more digital data than they need.

The research, done in early 2025 by Compass Datacenters, asked 1,000 people about their digital habits. It found that digital overload is becoming a serious problem, and most people don’t know how to deal with it.


Why It Feels Overwhelming

Sorting through digital files can feel stressful. Around 33% of people said the thought of organizing their digital space made them feel uneasy or anxious. Only a small number—about 10% felt sure of how to clean up their digital mess.

People understand that too many saved files can slow down devices and make it hard to find what’s important. Yet, most don’t take the time to delete old data. This is often because they don’t know where to start or feel it will take too long.


The High Price of Keeping Everything

Holding on to unnecessary data isn’t just bad for your device— it can also hurt your wallet. Cloud storage services charge monthly fees, and these costs add up. The survey shared an example: If someone starts paying $20 per month for storage at age 25 and continues until they’re 85, they could spend about $40,000 in total.

Many younger people are choosing to buy more storage space instead of clearing files they no longer use.


Easy Ways to Start Cleaning

Cleaning your digital space doesn’t have to be difficult. Begin by checking your photo gallery. Delete pictures that are blurry, repeated, or no longer needed. Doing this once a month makes it easier.

Then, look at your apps. Are there any you haven’t opened in a long time? If yes, remove them. You can always download them again later.

Your downloads folder and email inbox can also hold a lot of junk. Old receipts, random files, and unread emails can take up space. Try removing emails with attachments first—they usually take up more storage.

Instead of paying every month for cloud storage, you can buy a hard drive once and store your files there. These drives offer lots of space at a one-time cost that can save you money over the years.


Make Digital Clean-Up a Routine

Just like cleaning your home, organizing your digital life works best when done regularly. Pick a day every few months to sort through your phone or computer. It may seem boring at first, but it feels great once done.

By cleaning your digital space often, you can keep your devices faster, reduce stress, and stop spending extra money on storage you might not need.


CISA Raises Alarm Over Oracle Cloud Security Leak

 



The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has warned organizations about growing digital threats after a security incident involving Oracle’s old cloud systems. The alert points to the danger of leaked login details falling into the wrong hands, even though the full damage is still being investigated.

What Caused the Concern

Earlier this year, Oracle found out that hackers had broken into two outdated servers that were no longer in use. These systems were part of older technology, not tied to the company's current cloud services. While Oracle says its newer systems are unaffected, attackers still managed to steal information like emails, usernames, passwords, and digital keys used for logging in.

Some of this stolen information was shared online, with parts of it appearing to be more recent than expected. Cybersecurity news sources also received samples from the attacker, which some Oracle clients confirmed were real.


Why This Is a Big Deal

CISA explained that when login details are hidden inside software or automated tools, they’re hard to find and fix. If stolen, these hidden credentials could let hackers into systems without being noticed for a long time. Even worse, people often use the same passwords for different tools, which can help attackers reach more places using just one stolen set of details.


What Organizations Should Do Now

To reduce the chance of harm, CISA advised companies to act quickly. Their suggestions include:

1. Change all possibly affected passwords right away  

2. Stop storing login details inside programs or scripts  

3. Use multi-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security  

4. Check recent login activity for anything unusual  


More Breaches Reported

Reports also say that hackers placed harmful software on other older Oracle servers in early 2025. These systems, called Oracle Cloud Classic, may have been targeted since January. During this time, the attackers reportedly accessed Oracle’s Identity Manager system, which stores user login data.

In a separate incident, Oracle Health — a company that handles medical records — was also affected. In January, patient data from several U.S. hospitals was reportedly exposed due to another breach.

Even though Oracle says its main services weren’t touched, these events show how risky old systems can be if they aren’t retired properly. Businesses are being reminded to strengthen their security, replace weak or hidden credentials, and keep an eye on their systems for any suspicious behavior.



Explaining AI's Impact on Ransomware Attacks and Businesses Security

 

Ransomware has always been an evolving menace, as criminal outfits experiment with new techniques to terrorise their victims and gain maximum leverage while making extortion demands. Weaponized AI is the most recent addition to the armoury, allowing high-level groups to launch more sophisticated attacks but also opening the door for rookie hackers. The NCSC has cautioned that AI is fuelling the global threat posed by ransomware, and there has been a significant rise in AI-powered phishing attacks. 

Organisations are increasingly facing increasing threats from sophisticated assaults, such as polymorphic malware, which can mutate in real time to avoid detection, allowing organisations to strike with more precision and frequency. As AI continues to rewrite the rules of ransomware attacks, businesses that still rely on traditional defences are more vulnerable to the next generation of cyber attack. 

Ransomware accessible via AI 

Online criminals, like legal businesses, are discovering new methods to use AI tools, which makes ransomware attacks more accessible and scalable. By automating crucial attack procedures, fraudsters may launch faster, more sophisticated operations with less human intervention. 

Established and experienced criminal gangs gain from the ability to expand their operations. At the same time, because AI is lowering entrance barriers, folks with less technical expertise can now utilise ransomware as a service (RaaS) to undertake advanced attacks that would ordinarily be outside their pay grade. 

OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, stated that it has detected and blocked more than 20 fraudulent operations with its famous generative AI tool. This ranged from creating copy for targeted phishing operations to physically coding and debugging malware. 

FunkSec, a RaaS supplier, is a current example of how these tools are enhancing criminal groups' capabilities. The gang is reported to have only a few members, and its human-created code is rather simple, with a very low level of English. However, since its inception in late 2024, FunkSec has recorded over 80 victims in a single month, thanks to a variety of AI techniques that allow them to punch much beyond their weight. 

Investigations have revealed evidence of AI-generated code in the gang's ransomware, as well as web and ransom text that was obviously created by a Large Language Model (LLM). The team also developed a chatbot to assist with their operations using Miniapps, a generative AI platform. 

Mitigation tips against AI-driven ransomware 

With AI fuelling ransomware groups, organisations must evolve their defences to stay safe. Traditional security measures are no longer sufficient, and organisations must match their fast-moving attackers with their own adaptive, AI-driven methods to stay competitive. 

One critical step is to investigate how to combat AI with AI. Advanced AI-driven detection and response systems may analyse behavioural patterns in real time, identifying anomalies that traditional signature-based techniques may overlook. This is critical for fighting strategies like polymorphism, which have been expressly designed to circumvent standard detection technologies. Continuous network monitoring provides an additional layer of defence, detecting suspicious activity before ransomware can activate and propagate. 

Beyond detection, AI-powered solutions are critical for avoiding data exfiltration, as modern ransomware gangs almost always use data theft to squeeze their victims. According to our research, 94% of reported ransomware attacks in 2024 involved exfiltration, highlighting the importance of Anti Data Exfiltration (ADX) solutions as part of a layered security approach. Organisations can prevent extortion efforts by restricting unauthorised data transfers, leaving attackers with no choice but to move on.

SBI Issues Urgent Warning Against Deepfake Scam Videos Promoting Fake Investment Schemes

 

The State Bank of India (SBI) has issued an urgent public advisory warning customers and the general public about the rising threat of deepfake scam videos. These videos, circulating widely on social media, falsely claim that SBI has launched an AI-powered investment scheme in collaboration with the Government of India and multinational corporations—offering unusually high returns. 

SBI categorically denied any association with such platforms and urged individuals to verify investment-related information through its official website, social media handles, or local branches. The bank emphasized that it does not endorse or support any investment services that promise guaranteed or unrealistic returns. 

In a statement published on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, SBI stated: “State Bank of India cautions all its customers and the general public about many deepfake videos being circulated on social media, falsely claiming the launch of an AI-based platform showcasing lucrative investment schemes supported by SBI in association with the Government of India and some multinational companies. These videos misuse technology to create false narratives and deceive people into making financial commitments in fraudulent schemes. We clarify that SBI does not endorse any such schemes that promise unrealistic or unusually high returns.” 

Deepfake technology, which uses AI to fabricate convincing videos by manipulating facial expressions and voices, has increasingly been used to impersonate public figures and create fake endorsements. These videos often feature what appear to be real speeches or statements by senior officials or celebrities, misleading viewers into believing in illegitimate financial products. This isn’t an isolated incident. Earlier this year, a deepfake video showing India’s Union Finance Minister allegedly promoting an investment platform was debunked by the government’s PIB Fact Check. 

The video, which falsely claimed that viewers could earn a steady daily income through the platform, was confirmed to be digitally altered. SBI’s warning is part of a broader effort to combat the misuse of emerging technologies for financial fraud. The bank is urging everyone to remain cautious and to avoid falling prey to such digital deceptions. Scammers are increasingly using advanced AI tools to exploit public trust and create a false sense of legitimacy. 

To protect themselves, customers are advised to verify any financial information or offers through official SBI channels. Any suspicious activity or misleading promotional material should be reported immediately. SBI’s proactive communication reinforces its commitment to safeguarding customers in an era where financial scams are becoming more sophisticated. The bank’s message is clear: do not trust any claims about investment opportunities unless they come directly from verified, official sources.

Unexpected 4Chan Downtime Leads to Cybersecurity Speculation

 


There has been a significant breach of security at 4chan recently, which has been widely reported. According to several online sources, a hacker may have managed to penetrate the platform's internal systems after successfully infiltrating the platform's anonymous and unmoderated discussions. This may represent the beginning of what appears to be a significant cybersecurity incident. 

Early reports indicate that the breach occurred when a section of the website that was inactive suddenly became active, displaying prominent messages such as "U GOT HACKED", a clear indication that the site had been hacked. This unexpected reactivation was the first indication that unauthorised access had been achieved. There was also growing speculation as a result of several online posts claiming the perpetrator behind the breach was leaking sensitive information, including personal information about the site moderators and their identities. 

The nature of the claims has sparked widespread concern about the possibility of data exposure and wider cybersecurity vulnerabilities for the platform, even though the platform has not yet released an official statement verifying the extent of the compromise. In this instance, it underscores the growing threat landscape facing digital platforms, particularly those that operate with minimal moderation and host large volumes of user-generated content, as the story unfolds. 

As cybersecurity experts and digital rights advocates continue to follow the story closely for confirmation and implications of the alleged breach, cybersecurity experts are closely monitoring developments. According to reports on social media platforms, 4chan was experiencing prolonged periods of downtime, which was widely reported by users across social media platforms, indicating the alleged breach of the website.

As of this writing, the website remains largely inaccessible. It appears that the disruption has been caused by a targeted and prolonged cyber intrusion, as suggested by independent observations, including those cited by TechCrunch. One user of a competing message board seemed to be revelling in the incident, with another claiming that the attacker had been able to use 4chan's systems for more than a year after gaining covert access through a user-created account. It is believed that numerous screenshots, purported to depict the administrative interface of the site, were circulated online as evidence of these claims. 

The images depicted what appeared to be internal tools and infrastructure, including moderation templates, user banning policies, and the source code of the platform, all of which would normally belong to the moderation team of the site. The most disturbing aspect of the leak has to do with a document that allegedly gives the identities of some 4chan moderators, as well as "janitors," who are users with limited administrative rights. 

In contrast to janitors, who are capable of removing threads and posts, moderators possess a more powerful set of capabilities, including the ability to view the IP address of users. This disclosure could have serious security and privacy implications if verified, especially given 4chan's history of hosting political, sometimes extreme content that is frequently unethical, oriented and extremist. 

Among other things, cybersecurity analysts warn that such a leak could compromise not only individual safety but could also give us a clearer picture of how one of the most polarising online communities functions. There have been reports of widespread service disruptions at 4chan, which were first reported early Tuesday, when thousands of users documented their experiences on Downdetector, a platform for monitoring website outages, reporting that 4chan's service has been disrupted. 

Since then, 4chan’s site has been intermittently accessible, with no official acknowledgement or explanations from its administrators, leaving a void that has quickly been filled by speculation. The narrative that has circulated, albeit unverified, points to a significant security breach. Multiple sources suggest that a hacker may have infiltrated the back-end infrastructure of 4chan and may be able to gain access to sensitive data, including moderator email addresses, internal communications and internal communications, among others. 

According to some users, the alleged vulnerability may be the result of outdated server software, which has been reported not to have been patched for more than a year. An even more detailed analysis was provided on the imageboard soyjack Party, a rival imageboard, where one user claimed the intruder had been able to access 4chan's administrative systems secretly for over a year. 

By these posts, the hacker eventually published portions of the platform's source code, as well as internal staff documentation, which led to a 4chan administrator taking it offline to prevent further exposure, as a result of the leak. As well as these allegations, many users on Reddit have shared screenshots of moderator login interfaces, private chat logs, as well as fragments of leaked code, as well as other claims that users echo. 

It is important to note that, while none of these allegations have been independently verified, cybersecurity professionals warn that if the breach is authentic, it can have serious repercussions for the site's operational security as well as the privacy of its users and employees. There has long been a reputation for 4chan as a place where controversial content is posted and politically sensitive discourse is conducted, and any breach of personal data, especially that of moderators, raises concerns about the possibility of identity theft, doxxing, and targeted harassment, as well as broader cyber exploitation. 

A definitive identification of the person responsible for the alleged 4chan breach has not been made yet, as conflicting reports and a lack of verifiable evidence continue to obscure the exact origins of the alleged attack. However, some emerging theories suggest that individuals connected with the Soyjak.party community, which is formally called the “Sharty” group, may have been involved in the incident. 

According to the allegations of these attackers, they are suspected to have exploited longstanding vulnerabilities in the backend architecture of 4chan, specifically outdated PHP code and deprecated MySQL functions, and gained access to a previously banned discussion board known as /QA/, as well as exposed some email addresses of the moderators of the platform. It remains unclear about the motives of the group. 

In recent weeks, certain users on X (formerly Twitter) have suggested that it might have been a retaliatory act resulting from the controversial removal of the /QA/ board in 2021. Although these assertions have been widely circulated, they have not been verified by credible sources. A comparison has also been made to previous breaches, including one which was revealed by 4chan's founder Christopher Poole in 2014, in which an attacker allegedly compromised moderator accounts due to his grievances. 

The incident at that time ended without any clarity as to who was responsible for the incident. It is clear that securing anonymous platforms, especially those that have a complex legacy and a volatile user base, continues to present several challenges, especially when layered with historical precedent and fresh suspicions. There will likely remain questions regarding accountability and intent until a formal investigation produces conclusive findings. 

It is likely, however, that if the breach is authenticated, it will significantly damage both 4chan's credibility and the privacy of its users. In addition to the possibility of exposing moderator emails and internal communications, leaked materials are allegedly showing evidence of deep system access, as well. According to these materials, user metrics, deleted posts and related IP addresses are exhibited alongside internal administrative documentation as well as portions of the platform's underlying source code assets. 

These materials, if genuine, may pose considerable security threats to users in the future. Even though WIRED is not able to independently verify the leaked content, there has been some controversy surrounding the situation since at least a few elements of the breach have been acknowledged as authentic by a moderator on the forum. Several concerns have been raised regarding 4chan's infrastructure since this incident, particularly allegations that the outdated and unpatched legacy software could have led to vulnerabilities ripe for exploitation. 

It is clear that these concerns have been around for nearly a decade; in 2014, following a previous security incident, the site's founder, Christopher Poole (also known as "moot"), made public a call for proactive measures in cybersecurity. In retrospect, it seems as though those early warnings went mostly unanswered. 

As a professor at the University of California Riverside who has a keen interest in digital discourse, online subcultures, and digital discourse, Emiliano De Cristofaro commented on the wider implications of the data breach, stating, “It seems that 4chan hasn’t been properly maintained in years,” he noted, noting that a failure to modernize and secure its infrastructure could now have exposed the site to irreversible consequences.

Security Analysts Express Concerns Over AI-Generated Doll Trend

 

If you've been scrolling through social media recently, you've probably seen a lot of... dolls. There are dolls all over X and on Facebook feeds. Instagram? Dolls. TikTok?

You guessed it: dolls, as well as doll-making techniques. There are even dolls on LinkedIn, undoubtedly the most serious and least entertaining member of the club. You can refer to it as the Barbie AI treatment or the Barbie box trend. If Barbie isn't your thing, you can try AI action figures, action figure starter packs, or the ChatGPT action figure fad. However, regardless of the hashtag, dolls appear to be everywhere. 

And, while they share some similarities (boxes and packaging resembling Mattel's Barbie, personality-driven accessories, a plastic-looking smile), they're all as unique as the people who post them, with the exception of one key common feature: they're not real. 

In the emerging trend, users are using generative AI tools like ChatGPT to envision themselves as dolls or action figures, complete with accessories. It has proven quite popular, and not just among influencers.

Politicians, celebrities, and major brands have all joined in. Journalists covering the trend have created images of themselves with cameras and microphones (albeit this journalist won't put you through that). Users have created renditions of almost every well-known figure, including billionaire Elon Musk and actress and singer Ariana Grande. 

The Verge, a tech media outlet, claims that it started on LinkedIn, a professional social networking site that was well-liked by marketers seeking interaction. Because of this, a lot of the dolls you see try to advertise a company or business. (Think, "social media marketer doll," or even "SEO manager doll." ) 

Privacy concerns

From a social perspective, the popularity of the doll-generating trend isn't surprising at all, according to Matthew Guzdial, an assistant professor of computing science at the University of Alberta.

"This is the kind of internet trend we've had since we've had social media. Maybe it used to be things like a forwarded email or a quiz where you'd share the results," Guzdial noted. 

But as with any AI trend, there are some concerns over its data use. Generative AI in general poses substantial data privacy challenges. As the Stanford University Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (Stanford HAI) points out, data privacy concerns and the internet are nothing new, but AI is so "data-hungry" that it magnifies the risk. 

Safety tips 

As we have seen, one of the major risks of participating in viral AI trends is the potential for your conversation history to be compromised by unauthorised or malicious parties. To stay safe, researchers recommend taking the following steps: 

Protect your account: This includes enabling 2FA, creating secure and unique passwords for each service, and avoiding logging in to shared computers.

Minimise the real data you give to the AI model: Fornés suggests using nicknames or other data instead. You should also consider utilising a different ID solely for interactions with AI models.

Use the tool cautiously and properly: When feasible, use the AI model in incognito mode and without activating the history or conversational memory functions.

Why Location Data Privacy Laws Are Urgently Needed

 

Your location data is more than a simple point on a map—it’s a revealing digital fingerprint. It can show where you live, where you work, where you worship, and even where you access healthcare. In today’s hyper-connected environment, these movements are silently collected, packaged, and sold to the highest bidder. For those seeking reproductive or gender-affirming care, attending protests, or visiting immigration clinics, this data can become a dangerous weapon.

Last year, privacy advocates raised urgent concerns, calling on lawmakers to address the risks posed by unchecked location tracking technologies. These tools are now increasingly used to surveil and criminalize individuals for accessing fundamental services like reproductive healthcare.

There is hope. States such as California, Massachusetts, and Illinois are now moving forward with legislation designed to limit the misuse of this data and protect individuals from digital surveillance. These bills aim to preserve the right to privacy and ensure safe access to healthcare and other essential rights.

Imagine a woman in Alabama—where abortion is entirely banned—dropping her children at daycare and driving to Florida for a clinic visit. She uses a GPS app to navigate and a free radio app along the way. Without her knowledge, the apps track her entire route, which is then sold by a data broker. Privacy researchers demonstrated how this could happen using Locate X, a tool developed by Babel Street, which mapped a user’s journey from Alabama to Florida.

Despite its marketing as a law enforcement tool, Locate X was accessed by private investigators who falsely claimed affiliation with authorities. This loophole highlights the deeply flawed nature of current data protections and how they can be exploited by anyone posing as law enforcement.

The data broker ecosystem remains largely unregulated, enabling a range of actors—from law enforcement to ideological groups—to access and weaponize this information. Near Intelligence, a broker, reportedly sold location data from visitors to Planned Parenthood to an anti-abortion organization. Meanwhile, in Idaho, cell phone location data was used to charge a mother and her son with aiding an abortion, proving how this data can be misused not only against patients but also those supporting them.

The Massachusetts bill proposes a protected zone of 1,850 feet around sensitive locations, while California takes a broader stance with a five-mile radius. These efforts are gaining support from privacy advocates, including the Electronic Frontier Foundation.

“A ‘permissible purpose’ (which is key to the minimization rule) should be narrowly defined to include only: (1) delivering a product or service that the data subject asked for, (2) fulfilling an order, (3) complying with federal or state law, or (4) responding to an imminent threat to life.”

Time and again, we’ve seen location data weaponized to monitor immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those seeking reproductive care. In response, state legislatures are advancing bills focused on curbing this misuse. These proposals are grounded in long-standing privacy principles such as informed consent and data minimization—ensuring that only necessary data is collected and stored securely.

These laws don’t just protect residents. They also give peace of mind to travelers from other states, allowing them to exercise their rights without fear of being tracked, surveilled, or retaliated against.

To help guide new legislation, this post outlines essential recommendations for protecting communities through smart policy design. These include:
  • Strong definitions,
  • Clear rules,
  • Affirmation that all location data is sensitive,
  • Empowerment of consumers through a strong private right of action,
  • Prohibition of “pay-for-privacy” schemes, and
  • Transparency through clear privacy policies.
These protections are not just legal reforms—they’re necessary steps toward reclaiming control over our digital movements and ensuring no one is punished for seeking care, support, or safety.

Black Basta: Exposing the Ransomware Outfit Through Leaked Chat Logs

 

The cybersecurity sector experienced an extraordinary breach in February 2025 that revealed the inner workings of the well-known ransomware gang Black Basta. 

Trustwave SpiderLabs researchers have now taken an in-depth look at the disclosed contents, which explain how the gang thinks and operates, including discussions about tactics and the effectiveness of various attack tools. Even going so far as to debate the ethical and legal implications of targeting Ascension Health. 

The messages were initially posted to MEGA before being reuploaded straight to Telegram on February 11 by the online identity ExploitWhispers. The JSON-based dataset contained over 190,000 messages allegedly sent by group members between September 18, 2023 and September 28, 2024. 

This data dump provides rare insight into the group's infrastructure, tactics, and internal decision-making procedures, providing obvious links to the infamous Conti leaks of 2022. The leak does not provide every information about the group's inner workings, but it does provide a rare glimpse inside one of the most financially successful ransomware organisations in recent years. 

The dataset reveals Black Basta's internal workflows, decision-making processes, and team dynamics, providing an unfiltered view of how one of the most active ransomware gangs functions behind the scenes, with parallels to the infamous Conti leaks. Black Basta has been operating since 2022. 

The outfit normally keeps a low profile while carrying out its operations, which target organisations in a variety of sectors and demand millions in ransom payments. The messages demonstrate members' remarkable autonomy and ingenuity in adjusting fast to changing security situations. The leak revealed Black Basta's reliance on social engineering tactics. While traditional phishing efforts are still common, they can take a more personable approach in some cases. 

The chat logs provide greater insight into Black Basta's strategic approach to vulnerability exploitation. The group actively seeks common and unique vulnerabilities, acquiring zero-day exploits to gain a competitive advantage. 

Its weaponization policy reveals a deliberate effort to increase the impact of its attacks, with Cobalt Strike frequently deployed for command and control operations. Notably, Black Basta created a custom proxy architecture dubbed "Coba PROXY" to manage massive amounts of C2 traffic, which improved both stealth and resilience. Beyond its technological expertise, the leak provides insight into Black Basta's negotiation strategies. 

The gang uses aggressive l and psychologically manipulative tactics to coerce victims into paying ransoms. Strategic delays and coercive rhetoric are standard tactics used to extract the maximum financial return. Even more alarming is its growth into previously off-limits targets, such as CIS-based financial institutions.

While the immediate impact of the breach is unknown, the disclosure of Black Basta's inner workings provides a unique chance for cybersecurity specialists to adapt and respond. Understanding its methodology promotes the creation of more effective defensive strategies, hence increasing resilience to future ransomware assaults.

Silicon Valley Crosswalk Buttons Hacked With AI Voices Mimicking Tech Billionaires

 

A strange tech prank unfolded across Silicon Valley this past weekend after crosswalk buttons in several cities began playing AI-generated voice messages impersonating Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg.  

Pedestrians reported hearing bizarre and oddly personal phrases coming from audio-enabled crosswalk systems in Menlo Park, Palo Alto, and Redwood City. The altered voices were crafted to sound like the two tech moguls, with messages that ranged from humorous to unsettling. One button, using a voice resembling Zuckerberg, declared: “We’re putting AI into every corner of your life, and you can’t stop it.” Another, mimicking Musk, joked about loneliness and buying a Cybertruck to fill the void.  

The origins of the incident remain unknown, but online speculation points to possible hacktivism—potentially aimed at critiquing Silicon Valley’s AI dominance or simply poking fun at tech culture. Videos of the voice spoof spread quickly on TikTok and X, with users commenting on the surreal experience and sarcastically suggesting the crosswalks had been “venture funded.” This situation prompts serious concern. 

Local officials confirmed they’re investigating the breach and working to restore normal functionality. According to early reports, the tampering may have taken place on Friday. These crosswalk buttons aren’t new—they’re part of accessibility technology designed to help visually impaired pedestrians cross streets safely by playing audio cues. But this incident highlights how vulnerable public infrastructure can be to digital interference. Security researchers have warned in the past that these systems, often managed with default settings and unsecured firmware, can be compromised if not properly protected. 

One expert, physical penetration specialist Deviant Ollam, has previously demonstrated how such buttons can be manipulated using unchanged passwords or open ports. Polara, a leading manufacturer of these audio-enabled buttons, did not respond to requests for comment. The silence leaves open questions about how widespread the vulnerability might be and what cybersecurity measures, if any, are in place. This AI voice hack not only exposed weaknesses in public technology but also raised broader questions about the blending of artificial intelligence, infrastructure, and data privacy. 

What began as a strange and comedic moment at the crosswalk is now fueling a much larger conversation about the cybersecurity risks of increasingly connected cities. With AI becoming more embedded in daily life, events like this might be just the beginning of new kinds of public tech disruptions.

Your Streaming Devices Are Watching You—Here's How to Stop It

Streaming devices like Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and Chromecast make binge-watching easy—but they’re also tracking your habits behind the scenes.

Most smart TVs and platforms collect data on what you watch, when, and how you use their apps. While this helps with personalised recommendations and ads, it also means your privacy is at stake.


If that makes you uncomfortable, here’s how to take back control:

1. Amazon Fire TV Stick
Amazon collects "frequency and duration of use of apps on Fire TV" to improve services but says, “We don’t collect information about what customers watch in third-party apps on Fire TV.”
To limit tracking:
  • Go to Settings > Preferences > Privacy Settings
  • Turn off Device Usage Data
  • Turn off Collect App Usage Data
  • Turn off Interest-based Ads

2. Google Chromecast with Google TV
Google collects data across its platforms including search history, YouTube views, voice commands, and third-party app activity. However, “Google Chromecast as a platform does not perform ACR.”
To limit tracking:
  • Go to Settings > Privacy
  • Turn off Usage & Diagnostics
  • Opt out of Ads Personalization
  • Visit myactivity.google.com to manage other data

3. Roku
Roku tracks “search history, audio inputs, channels you access” and shares this with advertisers.
To reduce tracking:
  • Go to Settings > Privacy > Advertising
  • Enable Limit Ad Tracking
  • Adjust Microphone and Channel Permissions under Privacy settings
4. Apple TV
Apple links activity to your Apple ID and tracks viewing history. It also shares some data with partners. However, it asks permission before allowing apps to track.
To improve privacy:

  • Go to Settings > General > Privacy
  • Enable Allow Apps to Ask to Track
  • Turn off Share Apple TV Analytics
  • Turn off Improve Siri and Dictation

While streaming devices offer unmatched convenience, they come at the cost of data privacy. Fortunately, each platform allows users to tweak their settings and regain some control over what’s being shared. A few minutes in the settings menu can go a long way in protecting your personal viewing habits from constant surveillance.

Google Plans Big Messaging Update for Android Users

 



Google is preparing a major upgrade to its Messages app that will make texting between Android and iPhone users much smoother and more secure. For a long time, Android and Apple phones haven’t worked well together when it comes to messaging. But this upcoming change is expected to improve the experience and add strong privacy protections.


New Messaging Technology Called RCS

The improvement is based on a system called RCS, short for Rich Communication Services. It’s a modern replacement for traditional SMS texting. This system adds features like read receipts, typing indicators, and high-quality image sharing—all without needing third-party apps. Most importantly, RCS supports encryption, which means messages can be protected and private.

Recently, the organization that decides how mobile networks work— the GSMA announced support for RCS as the new standard. Both Google and Apple have agreed to upgrade their messaging apps to match this system, allowing Android and iPhone users to send safer, encrypted messages to each other for the first time.


Why Is This Important Now?

The push for stronger messaging security comes after several cyberattacks, including a major hacking campaign by Chinese groups known as "Salt Typhoon." These hackers broke into American networks and accessed sensitive data. Events like this have raised concerns about weak security in regular text messaging. Even the FBI advised people not to use SMS for sharing personal or financial details.


What’s Changing in Google Messages?

As part of this shift, Google is updating its Messages app to make it easier for users to see which contacts are using RCS. In a test version of the app, spotted by Android Authority, Google is adding new features that label contacts based on whether they support RCS. The contact list may also show different colors to make RCS users stand out.

At the moment, there’s no clear way to know whether a chat will use secure RCS or fallback SMS. This update will fix that. It will even help users identify if someone using an iPhone has enabled RCS messaging.


A More Secure Future for Messaging

Once this update is live, Android users will have a messaging app that better matches Apple’s iMessage in both features and security. It also means people can communicate across platforms without needing apps like WhatsApp or Signal. With both Google and Apple on board, RCS could soon become the standard way we all send safe and reliable text messages.


Best Encrypted Messaging Apps: Signal vs Telegram vs WhatsApp Privacy Guide

 

Encrypted messaging apps have become essential tools in the age of cyber threats and surveillance. With rising concerns over data privacy, especially after recent high-profile incidents, users are turning to platforms that offer more secure communication. Among the top contenders are Signal, Telegram, and WhatsApp—each with its own approach to privacy, encryption, and data handling. 

Signal is widely regarded as the gold standard when it comes to messaging privacy. Backed by a nonprofit foundation and funded through grants and donations, Signal doesn’t rely on user data for profit. It collects minimal information—just your phone number—and offers strong on-device privacy controls, like disappearing messages and call relays to mask IP addresses. Being open-source, Signal allows independent audits of its code, ensuring transparency. Even when subpoenaed, the app could only provide limited data like account creation date and last connection, making it a favorite among journalists, whistleblowers, and privacy advocates.  

Telegram offers a broader range of features but falls short on privacy. While it supports end-to-end encryption, this is limited only to its “secret chats,” and not enabled by default in regular messages or public channels. Telegram also stores metadata, such as IP addresses and contact info, and recently updated its privacy policy to allow data sharing with authorities under legal requests. Despite this, it remains popular for public content sharing and large group chats, thanks to its forum-like structure and optional paid features. 

WhatsApp, with over 2 billion users, is the most widely used encrypted messaging app. It employs the same encryption protocol as Signal, ensuring end-to-end protection for chats and calls. However, as a Meta-owned platform, it collects significant user data—including device information, usage logs, and location data. Even people not using WhatsApp can have their data collected via synced contacts. While messages remain encrypted, the amount of metadata stored makes it less privacy-friendly compared to Signal. 

All three apps offer some level of encrypted messaging, but Signal stands out for its minimal data collection, open-source transparency, and commitment to privacy. Telegram provides a flexible chat experience with weaker privacy controls, while WhatsApp delivers strong encryption within a data-heavy ecosystem. Choosing the best encrypted messaging app depends on what you prioritize more: security, features, or convenience.

Increasing Exploitation of Remote Access Tools Highlights Ransomware Risks

 


Among the latest findings from cybersecurity insurance provider At-Bay, ransomware incidents witnessed a significant resurgence in 2024, with both the frequency and the severity of these attacks escalating significantly. Based on the firm's 2025 InsurSec Report, ransomware activity rose 20 percent from the previous year, returning to the high level of threat that had been experienced in 2021, when ransomware activity soared to 20 per cent. 

There is an overwhelmingly large number of remote access tools and virtual private networks (VPNS) that have been exploited as entry points for these attacks, according to the report. In particular, mid-market organisations, particularly those with annual revenues between $25 million and $100 million, have been severely hit by this surge, with targeted incidents on the rise by 46 per cent. As a result of the At-Bay claims data, it is apparent that the severity of ransomware breaches has increased by 13 per cent year over year, highlighting how sophisticated and financially destructive these threats are becoming. 

It was also found that attacks originating from third parties, such as vendors and service providers, have increased by 43 per cent, compounding the risk. It is also important to note that the economic toll of these supply chain-related incidents increased by 72 per cent on average, which increased the overall cost associated with them. This study highlights the need to reassess the cybersecurity postures of businesses, especially those that are reliant on remote access infrastructure, as well as strengthen defences across the entire digital ecosystem. 

A study published by At-Bay highlights the widespread misuse of conventional cybersecurity tools, particularly those intended to enhance remote connectivity, as well as the deterioration of the effectiveness of traditional cybersecurity tools. Virtual private networks (VPNS) and remote access software, which are frequently deployed to ensure secure access to internal systems from off-site, are increasingly being repurposed as a gateway for malicious activities. 

As a matter of fact, At-Bay’s analysis illustrates a concerning trend that threatens the flexibility of work environments. Threat actors are frequently exploiting these same tools to get access to corporate networks, extract sensitive data, and carry out disruptive operations. Due to their visibility on the public internet, cybercriminals are actively searching for potential vulnerabilities in these systems to attack them. 

The Remote Access Tools are essentially a front door that provides access to your company's network and can typically be viewed by the general public. For that reason, remote access tools are prone to being attacked by attackers, according to Adam Tyra, Chief Information Security Officer for At-Bay's customer service department. In addition to this, the report highlights the disproportionately high risk posed by mid-sized enterprises, which generate annual revenue of between $25 million and $100 million. 

The number of direct ransomware claims has increased significantly within the segment, which highlights both the increased exposure to cyber threats as well as the potential limitations in resources available to defend against them. As part of this report, the authors point out that “remote” ransomware activity has increased dramatically, a tactic that has gained considerable traction among threat actors over the past few years. 

In 2024, this type of attack is expected to have increased by 50 per cent compared to the year before, representing an astounding 141 per cent increase since the year 2022. As far as traditional endpoint detection systems are concerned, remote ransomware campaigns are typically carried out by unmanaged or personal devices. In these kinds of attacks, rather than deploying a malicious payload directly onto the victim's machine, networks file-sharing protocols are used to access and encrypt data between connected systems by using the network file-sharing protocol. Therefore, the encryption process is often undetected by conventional security tools, such as malware scanners and behaviour-based defences. 

These stealth-oriented methodologies pose a growing challenge to organizations, particularly small and medium-sized businesses (SMBS), as a result of this stealth-oriented methodology. In the study conducted by Sophos Managed Detection and Response (MDR), the most common threat vector in the SMB sector is ransomware and data exfiltration, which accounted for nearly 30 per cent of all cases tracked within this sector. 

Even though sophisticated attack techniques are on the rise, the overall volume of ransomware-related events in 2024 saw a slight decline in volume compared with 2023 despite the rise in sophisticated attack techniques. There has been a marginal decrease in ransomware-as-a-service (Raas) incidents. 

The advancement of defensive technologies and the dismantling of several of the most high-profile ransomware-as-a-service (Raas) operations have both contributed to this decline. This combined study emphasises the urgent need for businesses to modernise their cybersecurity strategies, invest in proactive threat detection, and strengthen the security of their remote access infrastructure to combat cybercrime. 

With the development of ransomware tactics in complexity and scale, the resilience of organisations targeted by these threats has also evolved. As a result of these developments, organisations are increasingly expected to reevaluate their risk management frameworks to adopt a more proactive cybersecurity policy. To ensure that a robust defense strategy is implemented, it is imperative that remote access security systems are secured and access controls are implemented and advanced monitoring capabilities are deployed. 

Besides raising awareness of cybersecurity throughout the workforce and fostering close cooperation between technology and insurance partners, it is also possible to significantly reduce the risk of ransomware being a threat to organisations. In the wake of cyber adversaries that keep improving their methods, businesses will have to take not only technical measures to strengthen their resilience, but also a wide range of strategic measures to anticipate and neutralise emergent attack vectors before they can cause significant damage.

Majority of Human-Operated Cyberattacks Target Domain Controllers, Warns Microsoft

 

Microsoft has revealed that nearly 80% of human-operated cyberattacks involve compromised domain controllers, according to a recent blog post published on Wednesday. Alarmingly, in over 30% of these incidents, attackers use the domain controller—a central system in corporate IT networks—to spread ransomware across the organization.

A breached domain controller can give hackers access to password hashes for every user in the system. With these credentials, cybercriminals can identify and exploit privileged accounts, including those held by IT administrators. Gaining control of these accounts allows attackers to escalate their access levels.

"This level of access enables them to deploy ransomware on a scale, maximizing the impact of their attack," Microsoft stated.

One such attack, observed by the tech giant, involved a group known as Storm-0300. The hackers infiltrated a company’s systems by exploiting its virtual private network (VPN). After acquiring administrator credentials, they tried to access the domain controller through the remote desktop protocol (RDP). Once inside, they carried out a series of actions including reconnaissance, bypassing security measures, and escalating their privileges.

Despite the growing frequency of attacks, Microsoft emphasized the difficulty in protecting domain controllers due to their critical role in network management and authentication.

Defenders often face the challenge of “striking the right balance between security and operational functionality,” the blog noted.

To improve protection, Microsoft suggested enhancing domain controllers’ ability to differentiate between legitimate and malicious activity—an essential step toward minimizing server compromises.

Jason Soroko, senior fellow at cybersecurity firm Sectigo, stressed the importance of proactive security measures.

"Ultimately, even the most advanced defense mechanisms may falter if misconfigured or if legacy systems create vulnerabilities. Hence, vigilant customer-side security practices are critical to fortifying these systems against modern cyberthreats," Sectigo said.

While Microsoft offers strong protective tools, their success hinges on users maintaining up-to-date systems and activating features like multifactor authentication.


Hackers Target WordPress Plugin Just Hours After Security Weakness Revealed

 



A newly found security issue in a widely used WordPress tool called OttoKit (previously called SureTriggers) has opened the door for cybercriminals to take over websites. Within just a few hours of the problem being shared publicly, hackers began trying to take advantage of it.

OttoKit is a plugin that helps website owners link their WordPress sites with other services such as Google Sheets, Mailchimp, or online stores like WooCommerce. This tool makes it easy to create automated actions—like sending emails or updating customer lists—without needing to write any code. Over one lakh websites currently rely on this plugin.

The major issue, which affects all versions up to 1.0.78, allows outsiders to get into a website without logging in. This means attackers can skip the usual login checks and gain access to important parts of the site.

The root of the problem comes from how the plugin handles security keys. If the plugin was set up without an API key, the internal “secret code” remains blank. Hackers can then send a fake request without any real login details, and the system mistakenly lets them in.

This bug lets bad actors create new admin-level users, giving them the ability to fully control the site— change settings, install software, or even lock the real owner out.

A cybersecurity researcher who goes by the name 'mikemyers' discovered this error and reported it responsibly. On April 3, the plugin creators fixed the issue and released an updated version, 1.0.79, which closes the security hole.

Unfortunately, attackers were fast to act. Experts from Patchstack, a company that tracks WordPress security, said they noticed the first hacking attempts just four hours after the bug was made public. Hackers used automated tools to create random admin accounts, hoping to break into websites that hadn’t yet been updated.

This case highlights how important it is to quickly install software updates, especially when they fix security flaws.

If your site uses OttoKit or SureTriggers, it is strongly advised to upgrade to version 1.0.79 immediately. Also, check your user accounts for anything unusual—like new admins you didn’t create as well as any strange activity involving plugins, themes, or database access.

US Tariffs May Lead to Chinese Cyberattacks in Retaliation, Experts Warn

 

As the trade battle between the United States and China heats up, some cybersecurity and policy experts fear Beijing could retaliate in cyberspace. Shortly after the US raised its tax on imported Chinese goods to 104 percent on Wednesday last week, China raised its duty on American imports to 84 percent.

"China urges the US to immediately correct its wrong practices, cancel all unilateral tariff measures against China, and properly resolve differences with China through equal dialogue on the basis of mutual respect," the Office of the Tariff Commission of the State Council noted in a statement. 

Citing a "lack of respect" from Beijing, US President Trump raised the China tariff yet again, this time by 125 percent. The government later "paused" punitive tariffs on numerous other countries, but maintained the 125 percent tax on China. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters, "President Trump will strike back harder when you strike at the United States of America.” 

There is growing concern that President Xi Jinping may use his army of cyber-spies to support the People's Republic, even though this back and forth has the potential to ruin trade between the two countries, drive up consumer costs, or cut off supply completely. 

"China will retaliate with systemic cyber attacks as tensions simmer over," cybersecurity advisor Tom Kellermann stated. "The typhoon campaigns have given them a robust foothold within critical infrastructure that will be used to launch destructive attacks. Trade wars were a historical instrument of soft power. Cyber is and will be the modern instrument of choice.” 

The "typhoon campaigns" refer to a sequence of digital incursions supported by the Chinese government that were revealed last year. Among them are Volt Typhoon, which has been infiltrating America's vital infrastructure since at least 2023 and plotting destructive cyberattacks against those targets, and Salt Typhoon, an espionage team that gained access to at least nine US government and telecom networks. 

"To the extent that China is holding back on conducting certain types of cyberattacks, it may feel less restrained now," noted Annie Fixler, director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies.

"The intelligence community has assessed that China has conducted operational preparation of the battlefield to disrupt US critical infrastructure and cause societal panic, impede US government decision making, and degrade our ability to mobilize forces," Fixler added. 

In addition to spying, which is always going on, it is unclear what, if anything, Beijing-backed goons intend to do online to protest Trump's tariffs. However, financially motivated cybercriminals have already discovered ways to take advantage of people's misunderstanding of the constantly changing trade regulations.

Government Plans SIM Card Replacement Amid Security Concerns Over Chinese-Made Chipsets

 

The Indian government is actively assessing the feasibility of a nationwide SIM card replacement program as part of broader efforts to enhance digital and telecom security. Authorities are currently evaluating the scale of the issue and may soon introduce detailed guidelines on the rollout. The move, if executed, could impact millions of mobile users still operating with SIM cards issued years ago.

The initiative is part of a larger investigation led by the National Cyber Security Coordinator (NCSC), following concerns about the security risks posed by chipsets embedded in SIM cards reportedly sourced from Chinese vendors. According to a report by Mint, the Ministry of Home Affairs has raised red flags over the potential misuse of personal information due to these chipsets.

“The investigation is being done collectively under NCSC involving DoT, MHA, and other stakeholders to identify the entry of such chips in the market and the extent of SIM cards with chips of Chinese origin. It seems even telecos were not aware of the procurement by their vendors,” the Mint reported, citing official sources.

As part of this investigation, the government is exploring technological and legal hurdles that may arise if the replacement plan is greenlit. Key telecom operators, including Vodafone Idea, Bharti Airtel, and Reliance Jio, have reportedly been consulted to discuss possible security loopholes that may surface during the swap process.

In addition to SIM replacement, authorities are also looking to tighten import controls on telecom equipment. Only suppliers from vetted, reliable sources may be allowed to contribute to India's telecom infrastructure moving forward.

Legal Framework Supporting the Move
The Telecommunications Act of 2023 provides the government with the authority to restrict, suspend, or ban telecom equipment or services if they are found to pose a threat to national security.

“Procurement of telecommunication equipment and telecommunication services only from trusted sources,” Section 21 of the Telecom Act, 2023 states.

Before this legislation, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) had already implemented licensing rules that factored in defence and national security considerations when sourcing telecom hardware. Under these rules, telecom service providers are permitted to buy only from "trusted sources" and must seek prior approval from the National Cyber Security Coordinator.

WhatsApp Windows Vulnerability CVE-2025-30401 Could Let Hackers Deliver Malware via Fake Images

 

Meta has issued a high-priority warning about a critical vulnerability in the Windows version of WhatsApp, tracked as CVE-2025-30401, which could be exploited to deliver malware under the guise of image files. This flaw affects WhatsApp versions prior to 2.2450.6 and could expose users to phishing, ransomware, or remote code execution attacks. The issue lies in how WhatsApp handles file attachments on Windows. 

The platform displays files based on their MIME type but opens them according to the true file extension. This inconsistency creates a dangerous opportunity for hackers: they can disguise executable files as harmless-looking images like .jpeg files. When a user manually opens the file within WhatsApp, they could unknowingly launch a .exe file containing malicious code. Meta’s disclosure arrives just as new data from online bank Revolut reveals that WhatsApp was the source of one in five online scams in the UK during 2024, with scam attempts growing by 67% between June and December. 

Cybersecurity experts warn that WhatsApp’s broad reach and user familiarity make it a prime target for exploitation. Adam Pilton, senior cybersecurity consultant at CyberSmart, cautioned that this vulnerability is especially dangerous in group chats. “If a cybercriminal shares the malicious file in a trusted group or through a mutual contact, anyone in that group might unknowingly execute malware just by opening what looks like a regular image,” he explained. 

Martin Kraemer, a security awareness advocate at KnowBe4, highlighted the platform’s deep integration into daily routines—from casual chats to job applications. “WhatsApp’s widespread use means users have developed a level of trust and automation that attackers exploit. This vulnerability must not be underestimated,” Kraemer said. Until users update to the latest version, experts urge WhatsApp users to treat the app like email—avoid opening unexpected attachments, especially from unknown senders or new contacts. 

The good news is that Meta has already issued a fix, and updating the app resolves the vulnerability. Pilton emphasized the importance of patch management, noting, “Cybercriminals will always seek to exploit software flaws, and providers will keep issuing patches. Keeping your software updated is the simplest and most effective protection.” For now, users should update WhatsApp for Windows immediately to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2025-30401 and remain cautious with all incoming files.

New Virus Spreading Through YouTube Puts Windows Users at Risk

 




A new type of digital threat is quietly spreading online, and it’s mainly affecting people who use Windows computers. This threat, called Neptune RAT, is a kind of harmful software that allows hackers to take over someone’s system from a distance. Once installed, it can collect personal data, spy on the user’s activity, and even lock files for ransom.

What’s especially worrying is how the virus is spreading. It’s being shared through common platforms like YouTube, GitHub, and Telegram. Hackers are offering this tool as part of a paid service, which makes it easier for many cybercriminals to get access to it.


What Makes Neptune RAT So Dangerous?

Neptune RAT is not an ordinary computer virus. It can do many harmful things at once, making it a serious risk to anyone who accidentally installs it.

One of its tricks is swapping digital wallet addresses during cryptocurrency transfers. This means someone could send money thinking it’s going to the right person, but it actually ends up in a hacker’s account.

Another feature allows it to collect usernames and passwords stored on the victim’s device. It targets popular programs and web browsers, which could let hackers break into email accounts, social media, or online banking services.

Even more troubling, Neptune RAT includes a feature that can lock files on the user’s system. The attacker can then demand money to unlock them— this is what’s known as ransomware.

To make things worse, the virus can turn off built-in security tools like Windows Defender. That makes it much harder to spot or remove. Some versions of the virus even allow hackers to view the victim’s screen while they’re using it, which could lead to serious privacy issues.

If the hacker decides they no longer need the device, the virus can erase all the data, leaving the victim with nothing.


How to Stay Protected

To avoid being affected by this virus, it’s important to be careful when clicking on links or downloading files— especially from YouTube, GitHub, or Telegram. Never download anything unless you fully trust the source.

Although antivirus software is helpful, this particular virus can get past many of them. That’s why extra steps are needed, such as:

1. Using different passwords for each account  

2. Saving important files in a secure backup  

3. Avoiding links or downloads from strangers  

4. Enabling extra security features like two-factor authentication

Staying alert and employing good online habits is the best way to avoid falling victim to harmful software like Neptune RAT.


FBI Operated ElonmuskWHM: Undercover Money Laundering Site That Handled $90M in Crypto

 

In a bold and controversial move, the FBI operated a money laundering platform on the dark web under the alias “ElonmuskWHM,” aiming to infiltrate the criminal ecosystem it served. According to an investigation by 404 Media, the FBI’s undercover cybercrime operation lasted nearly 11 months and facilitated close to $90 million in cryptocurrency transactions. 

The ElonmuskWHM site allowed cybercriminals—including drug traffickers and hackers—to convert illicit cryptocurrency into cash, often mailed discreetly to customers across the country. In exchange, the operator took a 20% fee. The service, regularly advertised on forums like White House Market (WHM), offered anonymity and required no form of identity verification—making it a go-to laundering tool for bad actors avoiding mainstream exchanges like Coinbase or Binance. 

A 404 Media review of court documents and online evidence confirmed the FBI’s direct role in running the site following the arrest of its original operator, Anurag Pramod Murarka, a 30-year-old Indian national. Murarka was eventually sentenced to over 10 years in prison. During its covert management, the FBI used the ElonmuskWHM site to investigate major crimes including drug trafficking, hacking schemes, and even a violent robbery in San Francisco. 

This FBI crypto sting is part of a broader pattern of law enforcement embedding within the digital underworld. Similar tactics were used in previous operations like Trojan Shield, where the agency ran a fake encrypted phone company named ANOM, secretly monitoring global criminal communications. Another example includes the infiltration of the ransomware group “Hive,” enabling the FBI to intercept communications and disrupt attacks. While effective, the ElonmuskWHM sting also sparked privacy concerns. Court documents reveal that the FBI requested data from Google identifying every user who watched a specific YouTube video, raising red flags about surveillance overreach and potential constitutional violations. 

Still, authorities defend such undercover cybercrime strategies as essential to understanding and dismantling complex digital criminal networks. Gabrielle Dudgeon, spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, noted that the operation directly supported multiple federal prosecutions and investigations. As cybercrime becomes increasingly sophisticated, law enforcement agencies are evolving too—blurring ethical lines in the process. The ElonmuskWHM operation underscores the high-stakes chess match between digital criminals and those tasked with stopping them.