Rakuten Viber experts shared with readers 24 Channels valuable tips on not being a victim of scammers. With the number of fake aid and volunteer meetings increasing amid Russia’s ongoing full-scale offensive, it’s more important than ever to be cautious and understanding when it comes to sharing personal information and interacting with questionable messages.

scam market in ukraine

Ukrainians receive lucrative winnings, bonuses, loans, etc. from banks, unknown organizations or agencies. Promising suspicious messages and calls not the first time. This tactic is often used by cyber crooks who are active on social networks and instant messengers, trying to take advantage of unsuspecting people. The alarming scale of digital attacks is clear: according to the EMA Association, in 2022 cybercriminals did the following amount of damage to Ukrainians: More than 1 billion hryvnia.

The new face of fraud

In the face of a full-scale attack that exacerbates an already difficult cybersecurity situation, scammers have added a new weapon to their arsenal: fake charity and volunteer meetings. In addition to their traditional methods, scammers now take advantage of people’s goodwill and willingness to contribute in times of war. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of these new types of scams and take steps to protect yourself.

Tips to avoid getting caught by scammers

Viber experts offer a few basic rules and recommendations to help protect yourself from fraud:

Check for unknown links and messages

If you have received a link in chat from an unknown sender or with a suspicious message, do not click on it right away. For example, if you receive a message in a group chat with a link to a new help program, check the information from trusted sources such as news sites or government portals. Official volunteer initiatives are often advertised on corporate websites or in the news. On the other hand, scammers’ links often lead to deceptive forms designed to extort money.

Check the organization’s online presence

To verify the legitimacy of the organization, do a quick internet search for information. Legitimate companies or foundations often have a website that appears on the first page of search results. Additionally, these websites often contain links to social media profiles and messaging apps. By checking these platforms, you can easily confirm whether you are receiving a message from an official representative or a potential scammer.

Examine the details of the message carefully

If you have determined that a fund or program mentioned in a message is genuine, carefully review all information provided in the message and on the linked website. Even a small typo in an organization’s name can point to a scam plan.

Trust reliable sources

Trust information from reliable sources. When you receive a message from an unknown organization, check their profile. Scammers often pretend to be legitimate companies to trick buyers into sharing payment information. Look for a “blue tick” next to the name of the organization in Viber – this indicates official registration and an active link to the site in the description.

be careful about donations

If you want to donate money to a charity, it is recommended that you use the information posted on their official website or attend a fundraising event initiated by people you know and trust personally. Avoid transferring funds through links received from strangers, as this could lead to scam schemes designed to exploit your generosity.

Protect your personal information

One of the most important steps to protect against fraud is to never share your personal information in chat rooms or over the phone. Avoid disclosing your payment details, document numbers or other confidential information to third parties. This precaution serves to protect both your personal security and financial situation by preventing fraudsters from taking advantage of your sensitive data.

Information that should never be shared

• Persons: Do not give your phone number, home or registered address, e-mail address on suspicious sites and do not share this information with people you do not know unnecessarily.
• payment data: Never enter your card information (card and account number, card expiration date, CVV code, banking application password and PIN) on suspicious sites and do not share them with third parties.
• Document data: Do not give your passport number, TIN, and any data in documents that an unknown person might ask you for.
• Location: never share your geolocation with strangers who may want it in chat. Where you will be in an hour, tomorrow, etc. You should also be careful with questions.
• Passwords and code words: never share this data with anyone (specifically, the answers you enter when opening a bank account — maiden name, pet’s name, etc.).

While fraud and cyber fraud continue to pose a significant threat in Ukraine, you should be careful and familiar with the strategies used by scammers. By following the advice of the experts at Rakuten Viber, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of scammers. Stay alert, stay up-to-date and protect yourself from cyber fraud.