Cybersecurity Experts Warn of Spike in Scams During 2023 Oscars

Oscar event illustration (photo: Unsplash)

JAKARTA - Kaspersky experts warn of a spike in online scams that are taking advantage of the momentum and popularity of the Oscar 2023 event to attack users.

The reason is, these scammers create fake websites that offer free streaming of Oscar-nominated films. However, the website instead encourages users to hand over their personal and banking information and download malware.

Kaspersky experts have identified various websites that claim to offer free streaming of the films but instead end up being money launderers, where users are required to pay a small fee to subscribe.

After making a payment, users become vulnerable to unauthorized transactions that are billed at equal intervals, such as subscriptions that cannot be canceled, or in small daily increments until their balance is used up.

“The 2023 Oscars benefit cybercriminals who deploy their malicious activities every year. It is very important to be extra careful while this event is still trending and double-check the authenticity of any website that offers free movie streaming,” said Olga Svistunova, security expert at Kaspersky, in a statement received by VOI.

Moreover, the highly anticipated sequel to Avatar has also become a target for online scammers to trick users into downloading or watching movies, including giving gifts.

With this scheme, perpetrators direct users to fake websites where they are asked to complete surveys that offer various prizes. After users click on the 'play' button, they will be greeted with a congratulatory message for winning prizes such as H&M or IKEA vouchers, up to the PS5 console.

The goal is to take money from users by charging a commission for sending gifts. Apart from that, scammers also collect personal information such as usernames, email addresses, and telephone numbers by promising cash prizes or gift certificates.

“Don't be fooled by bogus websites or bounty scams that trick users into providing their personal information. Always use a reputable streaming service and double check the authenticity of the website," he added.

To avoid falling victim to fraud, Kaspersky advises users to:

• Pay attention to the film's official release date in theaters, on streaming services, TV, DVD, or other sources
• Check the authenticity of the website before entering personal data and use only official websites to watch or download movies. Double check the URL format and the spelling of the company name.
• Use a reliable security solution that identifies malicious attachments and blocks phishing sites.
• Avoid links that promise early viewing of content, and if you have any doubts about the authenticity of content, contact your entertainment provider.