Porn Computer Scam Warning Issued In Brookline: Police

BROOKLINE, MA — Police are warning residents about a recent computer scam where the scammer claims to have screenshots of the target viewing adult websites and threatens to make those activities public unless a "privacy fee" is paid via cryptocurrency.

This scam is similar to recent reports of MetroWest residents falling victim to a computer spyware scam in which fraudsters threaten to release personal information obtained on someone's phone unless a ransom is paid.

Brookline police said that in this scam the potential victim receives an email claiming their computer was installed with malware while on adult websites and that screenshots and videos were taken of what the victim was watching.

After a series of morality insults, the scammer offers to destroy the photos if the victim pays a "privacy fee" via cryptocurrency.

"What's most amusing about this scammer is he claims to be 'coming at you with good intentions' and his 'word is my bond," Brookline police said.

The email seems more believable because it includes an actual photo of the victim's street and some easily located and publicly available personal information.

"This is no doubt unsettling and makes some fall for the ruse," police said. "However, you need to know this is a scam and you should not fall victim.

"If you receive a letter like this, report it to the police right away because there's a likelihood you're not the only target."