Cybercriminals are increasingly exploiting the emotional connection that Generation Z has with streaming content, particularly anime, to deliver malware and phishing scams. According to a new report by Kaspersky, over 251,000 cyberattacks were attempted using the names of popular anime series between Q2 2024 and Q1 2025. These attacks are part of a broader pattern targeting Gen Z’s favorite shows and platforms through disguised malicious files, fake episodes, and spoofed access offers.
Anime titles become a major cyber lure
Among the anime titles used to trick users, Naruto emerged as the most exploited, accounting for over 114,000 attack attempts—despite having aired more than two decades ago. Demon Slayer followed with 44,200 attempts, while Attack on Titan saw 39,433 cases of malicious file distribution. Other frequently misused series included One Piece and Jujutsu Kaisen, which continue to command massive online followings.
Kaspersky’s research shows that attackers often bait users with promises of “exclusive scenes,” “early leaks,” or “premium access,” leveraging the intense loyalty and engagement of anime fandoms.
Streaming services face a parallel threat
Beyond anime, the report highlights growing risks associated with globally popular streaming platforms. Kaspersky identified 96,288 attempts to distribute malware disguised as Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, and Apple TV Plus.
Netflix alone accounted for 85,679 of these attacks, with cybercriminals creating over 2.8 million phishing pages mimicking its branding. These attacks often take the form of fake login screens, fraudulent password resets, or scam offers for free trials—tactics made more effective by Netflix’s central role in Gen Z’s digital habits.
Also read: Kaspersky Flags 11.6M Offline Threats in Q1
Gen Z’s cultural favorites also targeted
Iconic Gen Z-favored films and series were also weaponized. Kaspersky tracked over 43,000 attempts to deliver malicious content under the names of Stranger Things, Shrek, Twilight, Inside Out 2, and Deadpool & Wolverine. Notably, Shrek accounted for over 36,000 attempts, with a significant spike in March 2025—double the monthly average for 2024—indicating opportunistic targeting linked to renewed attention or viral trends.
These findings underscore a unique cybersecurity paradox: the deeper the user’s emotional investment in a character or story, the more effective the bait becomes.
Launch of Kaspersky Case 404 to educate Gen Z
In response, Kaspersky has launched “Case 404,” an interactive cybersecurity game designed to help Gen Z users identify and respond to digital threats. Players take on the role of cyber-detectives solving immersive cybercrime cases, learning practical skills in the process. Upon completing the experience, participants receive a discount for Kaspersky Premium, equipping them with tools to secure their digital environments.
As Gen Z continues to live increasingly online—navigating streaming platforms, fandom spaces, and social communities—cyberthreats are evolving to mimic their interests and behaviors. Kaspersky’s initiative aims to shift the conversation from fear to empowerment by giving young users the mindset and skillset needed to stay safe in a world where pop culture and cybercrime increasingly overlap.
