Email phishing scams on the rise in Cyprus

Cyprus's police cybercrime unit is warning the public of a money extortion scheme, following complaints from people who recently received threatening emails.

According to local reports, internet users have received emails from unknown individuals asking for money, usually in the very secretive Bitcoin currency, in order not to publish private information and files that could be embarrassing or inappropriate for public viewing.

The scammers are telling people they obtained access to their computer through personal password codes and are able to access personal files. Possible targets could include media folders with private photos and videos, including gaining access and controlling a computer's webcam remotely.

The scam typically involves email phishing, where an email address is disguised to appear as if it is coming from somewhere else, usually a...