Illustration of spyware capturing webcam images during online browsing.

Sextortion with a twist: Spyware takes webcam pics of users watching porn | Spyware monitors the infected user's browser for NSFW content before activating itself. | AI News Digest

Published: September 5, 2025, 8:04 a.m. Technology Negative

A new form of spyware known as Stealerium has emerged, automating sextortion by taking webcam photos of users while they browse pornography. This malware, which has been linked to multiple cybercriminal campaigns, monitors browser activity for NSFW content and captures images of the victim without their consent. Researchers at Proofpoint have identified this spyware as a significant privacy invasion, adding a disturbing layer to traditional infostealer tactics. The malware is distributed as an open-source tool, raising concerns about its misuse. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting individuals with these automated methods, shifting away from large-scale ransomware operations. This trend highlights the evolving landscape of cybercrime and the need for heightened awareness and protection.

cybersecurityspywaresextortionmalwareprivacy