MUSCAT: Cybercriminals often exploit compromised online accounts to carry out a wide range of illegal activities. These accounts, once accessed, become powerful tools for hackers to impersonate victims, gain access to more sensitive information, and extend their reach into personal, corporate, or governmental systems. They may use these accounts to send phishing emails, distribute malware, or even engage in financial fraud such as unauthorized money transfers.
In many cases, compromised accounts are sold on the dark web to other criminals. These accounts may contain valuable data including email addresses, banking information, and login credentials to sensitive services. Once in the wrong hands, this data can be used to facilitate identity theft, drain bank accounts, or initiate blackmail attempts. This underground trade in stolen digital identities fuels a broader ecosystem of cybercrime.
Hackers also use these accounts to conduct more sophisticated operations. They may manipulate access to business platforms to carry out corporate espionage or disrupt operations through ransomware attacks. On social media, they can push false narratives, scam followers with fraudulent links, or destroy a person’s digital reputation. The visibility of high-profile accounts makes them even more attractive targets.
To combat such risks, individuals and organizations must practice strong cybersecurity hygiene. This includes using complex passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, and regularly monitoring account activity. Educating users about phishing and social engineering attacks is equally important. Only through a comprehensive approach can the threat posed by compromised accounts be effectively minimized.
