Cyber Experts Offer Services to Scammers on Dark Web for $25 per Hour

On the Dark Web, a criminal version of LinkedIn, cyber professionals are offering their services to scammers for as little as $25 per hour. These services include web development, software engineering, and data theft, with some providers even offering 'money-back guarantees' and portfolios of their work.

Why this matters: This trend highlights the growing threat of cybercrime and the ease with which criminals can access skilled professionals to carry out illegal activities. If left unchecked, this could lead to a significant increase in data breaches and financial losses for individuals and businesses.

The range of services offered is vast. Web developers are creating phishing sites, malware, and scam websites. Software engineers are building AI products designed to steal data or hack businesses. Some cyber professionals expose weaknesses in the businesses they work for, while voice actors use their skills to trick consumers or businesses.

Many of these experts are drawn to the Dark Web by the promise of quick pay, often citing financial difficulties. One experienced cybersecurity worker mentioned needing to buy Christmas gifts for their children. However, experts warn that the easy money comes with significant risks. Once involved in criminal activity, it is challenging to leave, and criminals often betray their associates to save themselves.

The rise in these illicit adverts has been linked to the economic downturn. Workers, not just those with cyber skills, are turning against their employers for cash. Amanda Finch, CEO of The Chartered Institute of Information Security (CIISec), stated, 'Organised crime has jumped with both feet into cybercrime. They no longer need to rob a bank by using a gun, they can find people online and then sit back and watch the money come in with limited risk to themselves.'

The consequences of this trend are severe. Cybersecurity is the frontline of protecting major businesses and the private sector from attacks by criminals and rival states. Experts warn that companies often lack a proper understanding of what is involved in cybersecurity, leading to poor budgeting and staffing. This creates opportunities for bad actors to turn to crime.

Statistics show that 25% of security leaders will leave the security industry by 2025 because of work-related stress. Mark, a police officer specializing in cybercrime and Dark Web criminality, warned, 'You are being employed by criminals. When it is all going well, they are fine. However, if the spotlight falls on them, they will sell their soul to save their own skin and they will happily sell you out.'

The dark web poses a significant threat to businesses, as sensitive data exposed on the platform can be used by cyber criminals to access employee accounts in enterprise applications using stolen or weak passwords. To protect against these threats, businesses can launch their own dark web monitoring services, educate employees on password security, and implement robust security measures.

As cybercrime continues to grow, the need for businesses to understand and invest in comprehensive cybersecurity measures becomes increasingly critical. The trend of cyber experts offering their skills on the Dark Web highlights the importance of vigilance and proactive security strategies in the digital age.

Key Takeaways

• Cyber pros offer services on Dark Web for as little as $25/hour.
• Services include web development, software engineering, and data theft.
• Economic downturn drives workers to offer illicit services online.
• Cybercrime poses significant threat to businesses and individuals.
• Proactive security measures and education are crucial to combat cybercrime.