In recent days, internet users have been reporting a wave of messages beginning with dramatic statements such as “I’m a hacker and I have access to your computer.” The texts mention alleged recordings, an activated camera and a demand for immediate payment in Bitcoin—usually with a short “timer” intended to create pressure. Although the content looks alarming, cybersecurity specialists warn: this is a standard money-extortion scenario.

The mechanism is simple and psychologically effective. The attacker does not need to have any material—it is enough to arouse fear, force a hasty decision and hope for a quick payment. These messages are often sent in bulk; their authors use ready-made templates and publicly available breach databases to add fragments intended to look credible (for example, the victim’s old password). This is not proof of control over the device—it is merely manipulation.

How can you recognize a scammer? Pay attention to several features:

  • Threats and ultimatums (“50 hours,” “pay or I’ll send it”)—these are pressure tactics.
  • A demand for payment in cryptocurrency—the anonymity of transactions makes it easier for scammers to escape.
  • A lack of technical evidence—if someone really had access to your accounts, they could demand communication through official legal channels or provide verifiable evidence.
  • Use of password leaks—if the email contains an old password, it most likely comes from another data breach, not from current “surveillance.”

What should you do immediately? Here are the recommended steps:

  • Do not reply or pay. A transfer will only confirm to the scammer that the message reached its intended target.
  • Report the email as fraud in your inbox (Gmail/Outlook/other) and block the sender.
  • Check whether someone has used your account (the “Sent” folder).
  • Physically cover the camera if you are afraid of a privacy breach—this is a quick and simple precaution.
  • If you have paid, contact your bank (if the payment involved a bank account) and consider reporting it to the police.

Where should you report the crime? Electronic blackmail is a crime. It is worth notifying local law enforcement and your email provider. It is also important to report the message to the mailbox operator (for example, using the “Report phishing” option), which helps block campaigns and warn other users.

Why do scammers mention a “recording” or “access to the camera”? This is an element of the scenario intended to cause shame and force action. In practice, a capable attacker with genuine material could use other, more sophisticated methods and would probably not send mass messages with the same text to hundreds or thousands of recipients.