New Hybrid Scam Targeting Russians: A Growing Concern
A new hybrid scam targeting Russians has emerged, combining various deceptive tactics to exploit victims financially and emotionally. According to Sberbank, the scheme begins with a call from a fake personal broker who lures individuals into investing their money. Victims are then unable to withdraw their funds due to fabricated claims of fraud, leading to a second phase where scammers pressure them to involve friends and family in the deception.
The initial contact involves a supposed investment opportunity, where victims are persuaded to transfer money to a fraudulent account. When they attempt to withdraw their funds, they are confronted with demands for a fictitious tax code, which can only be obtained by paying a commission. This leads to a dead end, as the scammers then claim that the victim is under suspicion of fraud.
In the second phase, the scammers impersonate representatives from the Central Bank, threatening the victim with severe consequences unless they recruit a trusted person to help resolve the situation. This trusted individual is then targeted for financial exploitation, often leading to dire financial consequences such as loans or even selling property to appease the scammers.
Expert Insights on Preventing Investment Scams
Cybersecurity expert Alexei Kurochkin has highlighted the increasing popularity of fraudulent investment schemes, particularly as banks promote investment opportunities. He warns that scammers exploit this trend by creating fake applications that can intercept sensitive information, including SMS messages. Kurochkin emphasizes the importance of using official banking channels for investments and advises individuals to remain vigilant.
He suggests that anyone considering investments should verify the legitimacy of offers, consult with family, and take time to think through decisions. The urgency often created by scammers is a red flag, indicating a high likelihood of fraud. Kurochkin's advice is clear: trust no one, double-check everything, and take a moment to consider the situation before acting.
