Do you remember VerifTools? It was an online source for fake IDs (i.e., drivers licenses, passports, and other identification credentials) that had their servers and domains taken down by police, effectively ceasing operations. This is a major success against online crime in law enforcement, especially because this take down just happened a week after the passing of new Federal legislation.
Ever had an interest in how so many hackers get to bypass ID checking? Here's one of those methods.
• Fraudsters can steal money using the fake ID.
• Scammers can also defeat on-line verification systems using fake ID.
• Everyday people can become victims of identity theft.
So, even if you are not directly involved, fake ID's harm everyday people like us.
So the next time you hear about a rogue ID site, remember VerifTools.
What VerifTools Really Did
The big thing that VerifTools offered was allowing people to make and then sell fake ID's. Fraudsters used fake ID's to many banks, online retailers, social media, and agencies for government programs. Straight and to the point, VerifTools only did one thing, and that was allow people to imitate another person.Ever had an interest in how so many hackers get to bypass ID checking? Here's one of those methods.
How they Shut it Down
They didn't just shut down the site - they seized EVERY SINGLE server and domain name that was involved in running VerifTools. If you go to the site, you get a law enforcement message. And when you finally see that, it feels like the "good guys" won!Why It Matters to You
You might be saying to yourself, "I don't use fake ID, why should I care?" So here are the reasons:• Fraudsters can steal money using the fake ID.
• Scammers can also defeat on-line verification systems using fake ID.
• Everyday people can become victims of identity theft.
So, even if you are not directly involved, fake ID's harm everyday people like us.
This has occurred in the past
VerifTools is not the first fake ID website to be shut down. There were fake ID websites prior. By shutting it down, the police have sent the message: selling fake IDs on the internet can be dangerous businessConclusion
Cybercriminals are a creative bunch, and it is nice to see police take some down. The closure of VerifTools meant less fake IDs, less scams and fraud, and more protection for all.So the next time you hear about a rogue ID site, remember VerifTools.
