What is the Dubai Chocolate Scam that is causing havoc ?

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Cybercriminals are definitely ready to take advantage of all the latest trends to get into action. This time, it's sweet tooths who are the target, and more specifically anyone who wants to buy chocolate from Dubai. Here's everything you need to know.

As reported by our colleagues at Journal du Geek, this scam is based on the creation of fake websites that imitate brands such as Deliveroo or Fix Dessert Chocolatier. On the latter, you can find offers that are too good to be true with promotions that can reach 90%.

Disastrous consequences

Another scheme relies on the creation of fake online stores where the criminals present themselves as independent traders. They collect payments and then disappear without ensuring the delivery of the treats.

Smart, these scammers noticed that Dubai chocolate was increasingly being talked about on TikTok. So they probably figured that this was fertile ground for their fraudulent activities.

Olga Svistunova, a security expert at Kaspersky, warns: ” Cybercriminals are typically quick to capitalize on trends, and the Dubai chocolate craze is a perfect example. Using tactics that capitalize on consumer enthusiasm and trust in well-known brands is an effective way for threat actors to achieve their goals.”

Unfortunately, the consequences for victims are dire. In addition to the immediate loss of money spent, criminals also get their hands on personal and banking data and could attempt new attacks later.

As you can see, vigilance is required. It is better to make purchases on known platforms or to do your homework on the site where you are making a transaction. Also beware of offers that are too good to be true, which should put you on alert.

Beware of mirror sites

As a reminder, fraud on mirror sites is very common in France. Malicious actors usurp the identity of legitimate brands by reproducing their portals more or less faithfully. The idea is to steal visitors' personal data or directly steal their money.

Parc Astérix has just sounded the alarm on this subject. With the help of the French authorities, he nevertheless managed to close several of them.

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