Kaspersky, a cybersecurity solutions company, found that scammers are taking advantage of the hype surrounding the latest movie releases — “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” — by distributing phishing links.

According to Kaspersky, scammers are creating pages that supposedly offer special offers on merchandise such as, in the case of Barbie, limited-edition movie-related dolls. Scammers lure unsuspecting victims into paying £56-£60.

“Premieres and exciting events bring a wave of anticipation, but amid the thrill, it’s crucial for users to remain alert and adhere to basic online safety rules,” Olga Svistunova, security expert at Kaspersky, said in a media advisory. “While the experience is exhilarating, we must not overlook the risks. By maintaining a vigilant mindset and practicing safe online habits, we can fully enjoy the Barbie and Oppenheimer experience while safeguarding ourselves from cyber threats lurking in the digital world.”

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Dark Web

When the victims click on the phishing link and provided personal details including payment information, scammers can now use them for their own benefit. Kaspersky said stolen data also could be sold on the Dark Web market.
To stay safe while enjoying the excitement surrounding the movie premieres, Kaspersky experts recommend: 

• Be cautious of phishing scams: Beware of suspicious emails, messages, or websites offering exclusive deals or freebies. Double-check the authenticity of the source before sharing any personal information or making online transactions.
• Verify website security: When purchasing merchandise or accessing related content online, ensure that the website has a secure connection. Look for “https://” in the URL and a padlock symbol in the address bar to indicate a secure website.
• Use security solutions: Use a reliable security solution, such as Kaspersky Premium that identifies malicious attachments and blocks phishing sites.
• Be mindful of sharing personal information: Be cautious when providing personal information online, especially sensitive details like your address, phone number, or financial information. Only share such information on trusted and secure platforms.
• Trust reliable sources: Rely on official websites, authorized retailers, and reputable sources for purchasing merchandise, accessing movie content, or obtaining information related to the premiere. Avoid unofficial or suspicious sources that may try to exploit your enthusiasm.