In Ukraine, there is a growing activity of fraudsters posing as buyers on popular online platforms. The perpetrators send phishing links to gain access to citizens’ bank accounts, exploiting the trust of sellers.
This is reported by Finway
How Fraudsters Operate: New Cases in Ivano-Frankivsk
Recently, a 29-year-old woman in Ivano-Frankivsk became a victim of such fraud. She posted an advertisement for selling children’s clothing on one of the marketplaces. A fake buyer contacted her, expressing interest in the product. A few minutes later, the seller received a phishing link, which, according to the fraudster, was necessary to complete the payment for the order.
After clicking on this link, the woman downloaded an unknown application that mimicked a payment system. As a result, several transactions totaling nearly 60,000 hryvnias were made from her bank accounts. Only after losing her money did she realize that she had fallen into the trap of fraudsters and reported it to the police.
“Do not click on any links from messengers and do not share your CVV code, SMS passwords, or card details with anyone.”
Recommendations for Online Transaction Security
Investigators are working to identify the perpetrators or criminal group that may be involved in a series of similar cases across Ukraine. The police emphasize the need to be particularly vigilant when buying or selling goods online.
- Do not click on suspicious links received in messengers or social networks.
- Do not share CVV codes, SMS passwords, usernames, or other confidential banking information with strangers.
- Communicate only on official online platforms that have user protection mechanisms.
- Use cash on delivery to minimize the risk of financial losses.
Despite regular warnings from the police and banking institutions, Ukrainians continue to fall into the traps set by fraudsters. Following simple rules can help protect oneself and one’s funds from the latest schemes of scammers.