ISLAMABAD, June 2026: Cybersecurity company Kaspersky has warned football fans about a sharp rise in fake websites and online scams targeting viewers during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The company said it has identified at least 336 fraudulent domains designed to imitate official World Cup platforms. These websites are being used to lure users seeking live streaming access, betting services, and match-related content.
The warning comes as global audiences increasingly turn to online platforms to watch live matches, creating opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit fan engagement with deceptive digital services.
Fake streaming pages and crypto payment traps
Kaspersky researchers said scammers are operating fake streaming websites that advertise free access to World Cup matches. Once users click “watch now,” they are often required to register and pay a cryptocurrency fee for supposed full tournament access.
Security experts warn that such schemes can lead to theft of personal data and irreversible financial losses, particularly where crypto payments are involved.
Fraudulent betting sites and phishing emails
The report also highlights fake betting and prediction platforms that collect sensitive personal data, including names, emails, and phone numbers. In many cases, users are encouraged to reuse passwords, increasing the risk of account compromise across multiple services.
Cybercriminals are also using phishing emails promoting football analytics and match predictions, often creating urgency by pushing users to pay fees quickly—sometimes reported at around A$200—to access “premium insights.”
Safety recommendations for users
Kaspersky advised users to verify website authenticity, carefully check URLs, and avoid unofficial streaming or betting platforms. The company also urged reliance on official broadcasters and reputable services to reduce exposure to scams.
It further recommended using trusted security solutions to detect phishing attempts and malicious links targeting sports fans online.
