Examining file metadata is the most effective way to identify fake document images that are actively distributed on the Internet today. Viktor Ievlev, senior specialist in the information security department of the Garda group of companies, told socialbites.ca.
Attackers adopted the Tek Fake service, which creates photos of fake documents. This service is gaining popularity on the darknet and costs around $15 per file. Only Fake makes copies of fake passports and driver’s licenses. The site stores document templates from 26 countries, including Russia, the USA and the UK.
“To obtain a fake document, the user needs to upload a photo, indicate his full name, place and date of birth, and other data necessary for a particular document. The images created are realistic; With their help, you can pass verification in various online services, for example, on crypto exchanges,” Ievlev explained.
He also added that fraudsters are applying for loans with virtual copies of ID cards, applying for online microloans and opening shell companies.
According to Ievlev, to verify the authenticity of an image you need to check its metadata, also called EXIF data (Exchangeable Image File Format). This option is available on any user operating system – just open the properties of the downloaded file.
“They are set each time the source file changes and may include information about the author and the time and place where the photo or scan was taken. Metadata even stores information about the parameters of a camera, smartphone or MFP, the expert said.
Ievlev also recommended checking suspicious images of documents using the services of Findefix.com and Foto Forensics. The latter, for example, allows you to define completed areas or added objects in a photo.
Hackers before used vibrator to spread a dangerous computer virus.