Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Telegram has emerged as a new avenue for online scams, with online scammers leveraging fake Telegram Premium offers to steal users’ account information. According to a report by cybersecurity firm Kaspersky, this phishing scheme operates globally and has been detected in multiple languages, indicating a widespread effort by cybercriminals.
“Phishing schemes exploiting the Telegram Premium topic have been observed in several languages, highlighting the global nature of these operations. Even if these scams have not yet reached certain regions, there is a strong possibility they eventually will,” said Olga Svistunova, a Kaspersky cybersecurity expert, in an official statement on Thursday, January 9, 2025, as reported by CNBC Indonesia.
How the Scam Works
One tactic involves scammers sending messages that appear to come from someone in the victim’s contact list, often from accounts already compromised. The messages promise a free Telegram Premium subscription and include phishing links prompting users to log into Telegram.
Once victims scan a QR code or input their login credentials, scammers gain access to their accounts, including login details, passwords, and authentication codes.
Another approach involves phishing emails, offering Telegram Premium subscriptions and directing victims to fraudulent websites. These websites mimic legitimate platforms to steal personal information.
Expert Advice
Svistunova urged users to remain cautious, especially during the holiday season when scams often increase. “It’s crucial to remain vigilant and skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true. Ensure your Telegram security and privacy settings are up to date, and use robust security solutions on your devices,” she said.
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According to CNBC Indonesia, here’s recommendations provided by Kaspersky to protect against fake Telegram Premium schemes:
- Double-check links: Carefully examine URLs, including those embedded in hyperlinks.
- Verify links from contacts: Confirm the authenticity of links shared by friends or acquaintances.
- Use official channels: Subscribe to services only through legitimate and official platforms.
- Enable two-factor authentication: Protect your account from unauthorized access.
- Stay informed: Learn about methods used by cybercriminals to avoid falling victim.
- Use official apps: Download apps only from trusted sources like the official app store.
By following these precautions, users can safeguard their accounts and prevent becoming victims of this global scams from telegram.
(Raidi/Agung)
