Hackers Attempt Identity Theft of Victims in Florida Tragedy

Following the tragic collapse of the 12-floor condo located at the beachfront of Surfside, FL, hackers are now trying to abuse the personal tragedy of affected families. Threatpost reports that bad actors are pulling off an identity theft scheme, in the wake of the tragedy.

The collapse of the beachfront condominium in the Florida town took place in the early morning hours of June 24 and brought about a chilling death toll of nearly 100. This significant tragedy was seen as an opportunity by some stony-hearted hackers, who are now using broadcasts listing the names of the casualties to steal their identities.

Of course, Florida authorities are already on the case, which the seaside mayor has called "terrible". Due to the ongoing investigation, there is no public information about how many of the victims who died in the accident have become targets of attempted personality theft.

This is not the first time bad actors are trying to profit from tragedy or critical situations. Ever since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, there have been efforts to scam, fraud or phish people using all sorts of different methods. When it comes to illegal profit, it seems hackers have no shame, even in the face of death and tragedy.

Threatpost reminds that those Covid-related attacks have ranged from hacks targeting vaccine makers, to attempts to impersonate people and steal their relief money.

Surfside police and authorities urge anyone who has had a family member involved in the Champlain Towers collapse to keep a close eye on their credit card history and get in touch with the local Social Security offices to avoid any further attempts as impersonation and swindling.

The town's mayor has vowed to "make an example" of the people behind the scheme.