A malware developer has taken an unusual approach by creating a malicious campaign targeting individuals searching for child exploitation material. The malware, dubbed ‘CryptVPN,’ poses as a subscription service for accessing illicit content. Users are enticed with a free download but end up installing ransomware instead. Once infected, their wallpaper changes to an extortion demand, demanding a $500 ransom in Bitcoin within ten days. While this tactic is inventive, it’s uncertain how successful it will be, given the increasing awareness of such schemes. Sextortion tactics like this have been used before but are less effective now due to improved awareness. This development adds a new twist to cybersecurity challenges, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance online.