Cybercrime Southeast Europe Newsletter No. 70

Dear Clients,

One of the most common questions we hear from victims is: “How could I have fallen for this?”
The truth is that cybercriminals rarely succeed because of superior technology. Their main weapon is not malicious code but – human psychology.

Fraudsters carefully study the behavior and emotions of their targets. They know that most people will obey if someone poses as an “official”; that a dramatic message will create panic; and that the promise of profit will spark hope. Their strength lies in exploiting natural human vulnerabilities.

The most frequent method is the illusion of authority – impersonating bankers, police officers, or IT support. Another common tactic is urgency: messages such as “Your account will be blocked within 24 hours” or “This is your last chance to invest” push victims to act without thinking.

Another approach is building trust. In so-called “romance scams” or with fake investment advisors, fraudsters spend weeks gaining the victim’s confidence before exploiting it. They also use false promises of easy profit – making people believe they cannot afford to miss a “secure opportunity.” The cruelest form is fear and blackmail – threats to publish private photos or data unless a ransom is paid.

These methods work because they are deeply rooted in human nature. Marketing strategies rely on the same psychological triggers – but in this case, the result is not buying a product, but losing savings and identity.

That is why the key to protection is awareness and vigilance. When you receive an urgent message, pause. When you are promised guaranteed profit, remember such a thing does not exist. If you suspect you are a victim, preserve all evidence and seek professional assistance.

The best defense against cybercrime is not just technology – it is knowledge and caution.

Sincerely,
Your DefendMe Team