In the first half of 2025, the number of account thefts in Telegram increased by 51% compared to the same period in 2024. One Russian-speaking group stole 1.4 million user accounts from Russia and other countries.
On the dark market, the average price of accounts with Russian numbers fell to 128 rubles, which is 20% lower than at the end of 2024. This is due to the increase in supply and the time after the theft when the account was not used. Cybercriminals are interested in channel owners, virtual gifts, NFTs, and Telegram digital currency.
Fraud is also growing in WhatsApp, and the first cases of hijacking have been reported in the Russian messenger Max. To combat fraudsters in Russia, voice calls in Telegram and WhatsApp have been restricted. Max operates a 24/7 security center that blocks fraudsters.
Experts emphasize that the main vulnerability is not in the applications, but in user behavior. New platforms also quickly become targets because people are not yet accustomed to them and can fall for manipulation. Therefore, protection lies in following basic digital security rules: strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and caution when clicking on links.
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