FBI Warns of Hacked Police Emails

The FBI has reported a surge in cybercriminal activity involving hacked police email accounts. These breaches are being used to send fake subpoenas and emergency data requests (EDRs) to U.S.-based tech companies, compromising customer data and exposing alarming security vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals, often leveraging stolen email credentials, bypass traditional legal protocols by posing as law enforcement, creating risks for both companies and individuals.

One of the main tools in this scam is the fraudulent use of EDRs, which are urgent requests claiming potential harm if data isn’t immediately released. Unlike formal subpoenas, EDRs require no court approval, making them a prime target for abuse. Startups like Kodex are stepping in to verify the authenticity of these requests, but poor cybersecurity practices within police departments remain a significant concern.

The takeaway? Robust cybersecurity measures like multi-factor authentication and phishing-resistant protocols are essential for government and law enforcement agencies. As cybercriminals grow more sophisticated, the need for proactive defense strategies is greater than ever.