Internet fraud cases have witnessed a staggering 81% surge in the Czech Republic during the second quarter of this year, according to a recent report by cybersecurity firm Avast. The disconcerting data further discloses that fraud constitutes over 75% of the blocked threats targeting domestic computers. Neighboring Slovakia has also experienced a 57% rise in scam incidents.

The quarterly findings unveil a broader escalation of cyber risks, with a global increase of 24% in the number of unique blocked attacks compared to the preceding period. This elevated risk level marks the highest recorded in three years, indicative of a shifting landscape in the realm of cybersecurity.

Jakub Kroustek, Director of Malicious Code Research at Avast, highlighted the evolving nature of cyber threats, emphasizing the utilization of psychological manipulation by cybercriminals in conjunction with traditional malware attack techniques. Kroustek stressed the importance of not only adapting security measures but also enhancing public awareness and understanding of fraud to bolster defenses.

A notable trend highlighted in the report is the 39% increase in fraudulent activities observed on dating sites. Additionally, there has been a rise in deceptive advertising, fraudulent donation sites, and thousands of new phishing emails. The overarching objective of these tactics remains the acquisition of sensitive information and financial assets.

Of particular concern is the exploitation of human trust through requests for information seemingly originating from familiar and reputable sources such as banks or government offices. Such requests accounted for 25% of all threats during the second quarter. These schemes manipulate victims by creating a sense of urgency and trust, thereby coercing them into revealing confidential data or engaging in financial transactions under false pretenses.

Looking ahead, the report suggests emerging mobile trends, including the use of artificial intelligence by cybercriminals to craft nearly flawless imitations of legitimate communications. This development further complicates the ability of individuals to differentiate between genuine and fraudulent messages.

As the cyber threat landscape continues to evolve, the report underscores the critical need for individuals and organizations to remain vigilant, educate themselves about evolving cyber threats, and adopt robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard against the increasingly sophisticated tactics employed by cybercrime.