How Hackers are Using Telegram to Sell and Purchase New Cyber Threats
Exploring the use of Telegram by hackers in the cybersecurity world. Hackers are constantly finding new ways to cause damage to businesses and individuals alike. One of the newest trends in the industry is the use of Telegram as the main platform for hackers to buy and sell new threats. Telegram, a cloud-based instant messaging app, has become the go-to platform for hackers looking to make quick money through the sale of their latest cyber attacks.
What is Telegram and Why is it Popular Among Hackers?
Telegram is an instant messaging app that has been gaining popularity over the past few years, particularly among hackers. The app boasts end-to-end encryption, meaning that messages sent through Telegram are secure and cannot be intercepted by third parties. This level of security is appealing to hackers who want to keep their communications private while conducting their illegal activities.
Hackers also appreciate the ease of use of the app. Unlike other encrypted messaging services that require technical expertise, Telegram is easy to set up and use. It has a simple user interface and can be downloaded and installed on any device, making it a convenient platform for cybercriminals to communicate with each other.
How are Hackers Using Telegram to Sell and Purchase New Threats?
Hackers are using Telegram to sell and purchase new threats in a variety of ways. Some hackers are using the app to advertise their services to potential buyers, while others are using it as a marketplace to sell their latest attacks. Telegram also has channels that are specifically dedicated to the sale of cyber attacks, where hackers can list their products and negotiate prices with potential buyers.
Phishing services offers
A report from Kaspersky notes that phishers sell all types of phishing material and services to interested buyers, including ready-made kits, fake pages, subscriptions to tools, guides, and technical support. According to the researchers, the following services are being offered through Telegram right now:
- Free phishing kits with pre-packaged tools that allow users to create phishing pages imitating known brands.
- Phishing-as-a-service (PhaaS) subscriptions that provide access to tools, beginner guides, technical support, and regular updates for the provided anti-detection systems.
- One-time password (OTP) bots that help phishers bypass 2FA (two-factor authentication) protections automatically. These services are offered on subscription models at an indicative price of $130/week, or $500/month for custom deployments.
- Stolen personal data and online banking credentials which are often verified.
Why is it Difficult to Track Down These Hackers on Telegram?
Tracking down hackers on Telegram is extremely difficult, if not impossible. The app\’s end-to-end encryption means that messages cannot be intercepted, making it nearly impossible for law enforcement agencies to track down the individuals behind these attacks. Additionally, many hackers use fake or anonymous identities on Telegram, further complicating the process of identifying them.
Telegram also has a feature called \”self-destructing messages,\” which automatically delete messages after a set amount of time. This feature makes it even harder to track down cybercriminals using the app.
Furthermore, Telegram\’s servers are located in countries with weak cybersecurity regulations or that are hostile towards Western law enforcement. This makes it difficult for authorities to get access to the app\’s servers and collect evidence.
Telegram has become the new hub for hackers to buy and sell new cyber threats due to its end-to-end encryption and ease of use. The app\’s popularity among hackers has made it difficult for law enforcement agencies to track down these individuals and put an end to their illegal activities. It is important for individuals and businesses to take steps to protect themselves from these threats, including investing in cybersecurity measures and being vigilant about suspicious activity.
Keywords: Telegram, Cybersecurity, Hackers, Cyber Threats, Instant Messaging, End-To-End Encryption, Phishing, Cybercrime, Marketplace
