The State Police has asked citizens to be vigilant as they uncover another online fraud scheme to extort money.
Through messages on citizens’ phones, the perpetrators falsely present themselves as representatives of banking institutions and ask citizens to update their banking details, verify their account or perform other actions by clicking on a link included in the message.
These are phishing scams that aim to steal e-banking credentials, verification codes (OTPs), and bank card details. This data can then be used to conduct unauthorized transactions and cause financial damage.
To protect yourself from these scams
Do not click on links sent via SMS, WhatsApp or other communication applications, especially when the message comes from unknown or suspicious numbers.
Never give out passwords, OTP codes, PINs, or bank card details.
Before logging into banking services, carefully check the website address and make sure you are using the bank’s official channels.
Banks do not request confidential data through suspicious links. For any questions, contact the bank only through its official numbers and channels.
If you clicked on a suspicious link or provided your banking details:
Contact the bank immediately to block the card or account and take the necessary measures.
Change your banking access passwords immediately.
Report the case to the State Police, the Cybercrime Investigation Directorate, and any local directorate.
The State Police appeals for increased vigilance and caution towards any message, link or website that requests personal, banking or verification codes.
Don’t click. Don’t give out any data. Always verify through official channels.