Messenger Scam Surge Targets Ukrainians: How to Protect Yourself

Messenger Scams on the Rise

According to Главком: A new wave of fraudulent messages is circulating in messaging apps, falsely promising payments of 8,800 UAH from the UN and 3,100 UAH per person in compensation from Ukrenergo. The Center for Countering Disinformation, which was credited by the publication Glavcom for the alert, has exposed these deceptive schemes. Users are lured with links to submit applications, but these lead to phishing sites designed to steal personal and banking information.

Increase in Fraud Across Ukraine

Separately, Ukraine has seen a rise in fraud cases where criminals contact relatives of prisoners of war and missing Ukrainian Defense Forces soldiers in attempts to extort money. Scammers exploit the vulnerable emotional state of these individuals, making them more susceptible to manipulation.

Authorities are also warning Ukrainians about scam messages claiming fake debts owed to Nova Poshta. The Center for Countering Disinformation states:

This is a scam. No international organizations or Ukrenergo are making such payments through suspicious websites. The links lead to phishing resources created to steal personal data and banking information. Do not click on the links, do not enter personal data, and do not provide banking details. Official payments and aid programs are announced through the official channels of the organizations. - Center for Countering Disinformation

This situation underscores the critical need for vigilance amid increasing fraud, particularly within the context of the war in Ukraine, where many people are under significant stress. Official organizations consistently use established communication channels to announce any payments or aid programs. Consulting resources like the Center for Countering Disinformation can help citizens avoid financial loss and protect their personal data. These scams often exploit current events and humanitarian crises to appear more credible.