Online Card Fraud Surges: Average Theft Now Exceeds 6,000 Hryvnias

2025 Payment Card Fraud Statistics

According to ХВИЛЯ: The National Bank of Ukraine has released its 2025 payment card fraud data, revealing a significant increase in crimes committed online. According to the bank, an overwhelming 83% of all card-related fraud incidents now occur via the internet. In contrast, fraudulent transactions involving physical devices, such as point-of-sale terminals and ATMs, account for a mere 17% of the total.

The data on financial losses is equally stark, with 91% of the total losses in 2025 stemming from online fraud. This figure was slightly higher in 2024, at 93%. Only 9% of total losses resulted from scams using physical cards and devices. The average amount stolen in a single online fraudulent transaction rose by 27% compared to 2024. This figure reached 6,043 hryvnias in 2025, up from 4,761 hryvnias the previous year. This trend highlights the growing financial sophistication of cybercriminals targeting digital payments.

Common Fraud Methods and Safety Recommendations

Scammers are employing a variety of tactics, including:

• Creating phishing websites;
• Launching targeted ads with fake prize draws;
• Actively using messaging apps to lure victims.

In response, the National Bank advises users to take the following precautions:

• Always verify website URLs before entering information;
• Avoid inputting card details on suspicious sites;
• Use separate virtual cards with spending limits for online purchases.

Adopting these security measures can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to online financial fraud.

The rise in online fraud underscores the critical need for greater public awareness of financial security. As criminals continually refine their methods, it is essential for the public to follow the National Bank's guidelines and remain vigilant during online transactions.

National Bank of Ukraine

Following these recommendations can help mitigate the risks and financial losses associated with payment card scams.

As the rise in online card fraud continues, understanding the essential safety measures becomes increasingly important. To safeguard against these threats, it's crucial for users to familiarize themselves with the key data that should never be shared. By following these guidelines, individuals can better protect their financial information and reduce the risk of becoming victims of cybercrime.