The sender, using a spoofed address, threatened to release the targets information and encrypt their data. Copy of the email:
_x000D_
Greetings,_x000D_
I am sorry to inform you that your cloud storage was compromised._x000D_
Let’s get the biggest elephant out of the room first._x000D_
I am not a part of shady group that encrypts your data and extorts money leaving you no choice. But I HAVE copied your data._x000D_
The choice is yours._x000D_
_x000D_
Here is what happened, one of the websites where you have an account was breached._x000D_
After that I got access to your password from that breach and with some advanced manipulations and bruteforce extracted your backup data._x000D_
The data set that I have downloaded and parsed contains pictures, documents, contacts and more including some deleted files._x000D_
I dont have much time and dedication NOW to go through all of the files, but with some fast looking I did - I am sure that you dont want some of them to be seen by other people._x000D_
_x000D_
What I can do if you dont follow my instructions is simple._x000D_
I can send from your name to your contacts the most interesting content, its the least I can do. You may care or not, its up to you to decide._x000D_
If you decide that you dont care, I will go through all files, and who knows what more I may find more._x000D_
Maybe you have some confidential business information. Or GREAT nudes and videos. _x000D_
_x000D_
If I spend more time on your case, the amount will be 3 times bigger. Depends on the content._x000D_
So lets make it simple. You pay me $2000 USD, I delete the data, you change your password._x000D_
Business as usual, use Bitcoin to make the transfer._x000D_
13gdUqbxkC2TQPmaHLuMsTatATz6jHCwkp_x000D_
Account is unique and you have some reasonable time to make the payment._x000D_
Take care.