In a study by researchers from intelligence firm Flashpoint, it's discovered that Skype is the number one choice for cybercriminals. The instant messaging came up on top, beating others in the competition that include WhatsApp, ICQ and even the privacy focused messaging Telegram.
To come into that conclusion, Flashpoint's research was made after gathering data between 2012 to 2016 from cybercriminal communities spanning seven different languages: Russian, Spanish, French, Arabic, Chinese, Persian/Farsi and English.
It analyzed the current state of online crime-related communication, and relied on "mentions of social media platforms in the underground communities". Communities that were monitored include numerous internet forums and black hat messaging boards that are all known to be associated with web-based fraudulent activities.
Skype which topped the chart, is followed by ICQ, Jabber, PGP, AOL Instant Messenger, Telegram, WeChat, QQ, WhatsApp, and Kik.
Flashpoint's research paper is titled, Cybercrime Economy: An Analysis of Cybercriminal Communication Strategies. It acknowledges that cybercriminals' use of various encrypted communication tools, has challenged those that combat cybercrime.
The research by Flashpoint attributes the popularity of Skype partly to the fact that the software and app are bundled with Microsoft software and devices. The trend somehow shows that cybercriminals opt for convenience rather than sophistication when it comes to communication tools.
The research paper also concluded preferred online communication platform the online scammers varied by the language they speak and the location they are at.
Skype topped the chart on English and Russian speaking communities with 62 percent and 38 percent respectively.
Regardless of their language, skills, location or affiliation, cybercriminal groups tend to share a strong bond and are willing to share the benefit of cross-platform community collaboration. Working together, the actors include: malware developers, crypto writers, spammers, botnet masters, payment card specialists and cashers.
