As the much-anticipated G20 summit 2023 approaches, India is on high alert due to the emergence of several G20 scams, which threaten to disrupt the upcoming G20 Summit in New Delhi. Hackers are leveraging these G20 scams to launch cyberattacks, putting the G20 cyber security at risk.
Government websites have become the latest target, with unsuspecting users falling prey to G20 cyber attacks.
The 2023 G20 New Delhi summit, the eighteenth meeting of the G20, is set to be held at the Bharat Mandapam International Exhibition-Convention Centre in New Delhi. This marks India’s inaugural hosting of a G20 summit, a historic event for South Asia.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the summit, assuming the presidency from Indonesia in December 2022. The summit’s agenda encompasses crucial global issues such as green development, inclusive growth, sustainable development goals, technological innovation, and women-led development.
However, these G20 scams are targeting victims and jeopardizing national security in the lead-up to the G20 India Summit 2023.
What are the G20 Scams Targeting Netizens?
Just one day prior to the G20 summit 2023, a surge in G20 scams have been observed, primarily targeting individuals through fake government websites.
Among these scams, The Cyber Express uncovered a ‘Your Device Is Locked’ pop up scam, pressuring users to pay to unlock their devices.
This type of online scam preys on the fear of compromised security, employing a shock factor to convince users that their personal information is in jeopardy.
In one notable instance, the purported Indian Police website (police.gov.in) displays a fake “Your Device Is Locked” error, accompanied by a prompt for payment to restore access.
The Cyber Express found that this error primarily affected individuals who accessed the site through links rather than direct searches on Google.
These G20 scams escalate by applying psychological pressure on victims. The fraudulent message cites offenses like the promotion of explicit content and threatens severe consequences unless a fine of 30,651 rupees is paid.
The scam falsely claims legal backing under the Indian Penal Code, adding authenticity to this G20 cyber attack.
The perpetrators behind these scams go beyond mere phishing attempts.
They employ sophisticated scripts and utilize payment platforms to dupe victims further. Notably, it’s not only government websites that are targeted.
Prominent threat actors and anti-Indian hacker groups have also joined this campaign to target the country, setting their sights on individuals, including VVIPs attending the G20 summit in India.
The current ground of G20 cyber security
India’s security apparatus has been mobilized in light of these G20 cyber security incidents. With over 50 VVIPs set to attend, concerns about potential cyber threats loom large.
A collaborative effort involving key stakeholders has been initiated to fortify security protocols and avoid any G20 cyber attacks or any event that can harm the G20 Summit and its attendees.
Empowering the upcoming G20 Summit, the Indian Air Force has taken the command to safeguard Indian airspace over Delhi during the G20 Summit 2023.
Moreover, several cybersecurity agencies, government and non-government agencies, and journalists are closely looking at the event to hinder any threat that targets the G20 Summit.
The G20 summit 2023 in India, anticipated as a milestone event, is now in the clutches of hackers and scammers using these G20 scams and cyberattacks to target victims.
The timely response of Indian security agencies and collaborative efforts with various stakeholders signal a resolute commitment to upholding G20 cyber security.
As the global stage converges in New Delhi, India, the nation stands united to safeguard this global event against potential disruptions.
Media Disclaimer: This report is based on internal and external research obtained through various means. The information provided is for reference purposes only, and users bear full responsibility for their reliance on it. The Cyber Express assumes no liability for the accuracy or consequences of using this information.
