Cybercriminals never stop looking for new ways to take advantage of people. One of the most disturbing tricks is known as sextortion—when a hacker threatens to share private or embarrassing photos or videos unless the victim pays money.
Unfortunately, this crime has now become even easier for scammers, thanks to a new type of malware called Stealerium. Researchers recently found that Stealerium is being used in email scams to trick people into downloading it onto their computers. Once installed, the malware automatically collects sensitive data, including:
- Banking details
- Usernames and passwords
- Crypto wallet keys
- Private images
But Stealerium goes even further. It can watch when a person visits adult websites, take a screenshot of the page, and then secretly snap a photo of the victim through their webcam—all without their knowledge. The hacker can then threaten to release these images unless the victim pays up.
As one security researcher described it:
“This adds another layer of privacy invasion and sensitive information that you definitely wouldn’t want in the hands of a hacker.”
How Hackers Spread Stealerium
Like many scams, Stealerium is often spread through fake emails. Victims receive a message that looks like an invoice, payment notification, or other urgent document. Clicking the link or opening the attachment installs the spyware.
The malware is freely available online, making it easy for cybercriminals of all skill levels to use. Once on a victim’s computer, it secretly sends stolen information to hackers through services like Telegram or Discord.
Why This Matters
Older adults are often prime targets for scams because:
- They may be less familiar with new types of cyberattacks.
- Scammers assume they may be more trusting of “official-looking” emails.
- Embarrassment can make victims less likely to report sextortion attempts.
The emotional toll of this kind of crime can be severe. Even if no money is lost, the stress and fear caused by threats of exposure can be overwhelming.
Protecting Yourself With Cybersecurity Basics
The good news is that you can protect yourself from this kind of scam with a few simple steps:
- Think before you click: Don’t open unexpected email attachments or click suspicious links.
- Cover your webcam: A simple cover can prevent hackers from spying on you.
- Use strong, unique passwords: Never reuse the same password across accounts.
- Enable automatic updates: Keep your operating system and apps patched.
- Install antivirus protection: Security software like PC Matic blocks malware before it can run, preventing spyware like Stealerium from ever gaining access.
PC Matic uses a “default-deny” approach that stops unknown programs unless you allow them. That means even if you accidentally click a bad link, the malware can’t execute. Combined with 24/7 support and identity protection tools, PC Matic helps seniors stay safe from today’s most invasive scams.
Final Thoughts
Sextortion scams like those powered by Stealerium show how far hackers are willing to go to invade people’s privacy. But with basic cybersecurity habits and the right protection, you can stay one step ahead.
Don’t give hackers the upper hand. Protect yourself, your computer, and your peace of mind with PC Matic.
