Anton Nemkin, a member of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy, has revealed a new deceptive tactic used by cybercriminals targeting Russians: they are installing malicious software on victims` computers by employing misleading pop-up windows.
The deputy elaborated that this forms part of a widespread online fraud scheme. These pop-up windows are designed to mimic urgent notifications, falsely indicating a need to update a browser, media player, or other widely used software applications.
To gain users` trust, scammers intentionally design these messages to resemble official notifications from reputable companies. Nemkin cautioned that clicking on such prompts invariably leads to the automatic installation of harmful software, such as spyware or ransomware. These malicious programs are engineered to steal sensitive personal data, passwords, and other confidential information.
Nemkin strongly advised users against downloading any software updates through pop-up windows or from suspicious, unknown websites. He stressed that all updates should be obtained exclusively from the official websites of software developers. Furthermore, he highlighted the critical importance of installing and regularly using antivirus programs to safeguard devices against digital threats.
It was also previously reported that fraudsters have been sending out fake emails impersonating the traffic police (GIBDD). These deceptive emails inform recipients of alleged traffic violations and include a link to a phishing website, designed specifically to illicitly obtain personal data.
Clement Ashworth 
Barnaby Whitfield