Mumbai: As streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV Plus, and HBO Max continue to define entertainment for Gen Z, cybercriminals are increasingly leveraging these platforms to launch digital attacks. According to a recent report by global cybersecurity company Kaspersky, a staggering 96,288 attempts were detected to distribute malicious or unwanted files disguised as popular content from these streaming giants.
Unlike seasonal phishing scams or topical malware, streaming platforms offer cybercriminals year-round opportunities to exploit high-demand content and unsuspecting users. From global premieres to cult classics rediscovered months after release, the streaming boom has become fertile ground for deception.
Among the most misused brands, Netflix emerged as the top target, involved in 85,679 attack attempts and linked to over 2.8 million phishing pages impersonating its platform. These malicious campaigns range from fake login pages and “free trial” offers to spoofed password reset emails—engineered to steal sensitive data from users engrossed in their daily streaming routines.
“As the world of entertainment continues to evolve, so do the tactics used by cybercriminals to exploit popular content, whether through fake downloads or fraudulent merchandise offers. From beloved anime like Naruto and Demon Slayer to the latest blockbusters like Inside Out 2, scammers have found new ways to take advantage of Gen Z’s affinity for digital culture and streaming platforms. With the rise of these cyberthreats, it’s more important than ever for young users to stay vigilant and understand how to protect themselves online,”
comments Vasily Kolesnikov, security expert at Kaspersky.
In response, Kaspersky has launched an engaging initiative tailored specifically for Gen Z — “Case 404”, an interactive online game that turns players into cyber-detectives solving digital crime mysteries. More than just a game, Case 404 is a powerful educational tool designed to build awareness and sharpen digital defense skills in a format that resonates with today’s youth. Players who complete the challenge are rewarded with a discount on Kaspersky Premium, equipping them with professional-grade tools to stay secure.
Kaspersky Recommends These Steps to Stream Safely:
- Explore “Case 404” to gain firsthand knowledge of digital threats in an engaging, gamified format.
- Use official subscriptions from recognized platforms; avoid third-party streaming links.
- Verify websites before entering credentials—check for HTTPS and proper domain names.
- Watch out for suspicious file types like .exe or .msi when downloading content.
- Install a trusted security solution such as Kaspersky Premium to detect and block malicious attachments.
- Secure your digital footprint with Kaspersky VPN to safeguard IP addresses and prevent data leaks.
As digital lifestyles and content consumption habits evolve, cybersecurity awareness must evolve with them. Kaspersky’s latest findings and initiatives aim to equip Gen Z with both the knowledge and tools to stay safe in an entertainment ecosystem that never sleeps.
