Main scam schemes

Direct communication

Scammers may call or write pretending to be a bank employee and ask for your personal information, card details or SMS code, allegedly to “activate cashback” or confirm participation in the program. However, official banks and cashback program representatives never ask for such data.

How to prevent: Do not give this type of information over the phone or via text message. Always check the official app or call the bank yourself, even if the call seems genuine.

Refund offers for products or services that are not available

The Natskeshbek program only applies to certain Ukrainian products or services that are on the official list. If you are offered a refund for purchasing foreign goods or services, it is most likely a scam.

How to prevent: Always check if the product and brand meet the requirements of the program and if it is listed on the official website of the program.

Fraud by linking cash to existing cards

To participate in the cashback program, you need to provide a separate bank card to which the cashback will be transferred. This can be done in the official banking application or at a bank branch. If you are offered to connect the cashback in another way, asking for bank details, then this is a sign of a scam.

How to prevent: Do not tell anyone your bank details to connect to cashback via phone, SMS, email, messaging etc.

Fake services for refund transactions

Scammers can create fake platforms to check balances, increase cashback, etc. Through such “services” they collect users’ payment data. As a result, your data or money may end up in the pockets of scammers.

How to prevent: Pay for services only through verified and official channels and links. Avoid using little-known payment services.

Social engineering

Scammers can manipulate your emotions to force you to act quickly. For example, they may tell you that your refund card has been blocked and ask for your bank or personal details to stop the refund cancellation and a so-called one-time password to unlock it. At the same time, scammers often emphasize the urgency of actions that need to be taken right now and within seconds so that your money doesn’t “burn”.

How to prevent: Don’t make hasty decisions. No official institution will call or text you to request urgent activation or payment. If something seems suspicious, check through official channels.

Phishing sites and fake apps

Scammers may create fake platforms that mimic official websites, bank apps, or “Dia.” You may receive an SMS or letter offering to “check your cashback balance” or “connect to the program,” but instead you’ll be redirected to a fake website.

How to prevent: If you receive a message with a link, do not follow it immediately. Check the website address, make sure it is an official source. Phishing sites may differ from the original by a single letter in the address.

Recommendations for protection

• Use official applications to participate in Natskeshbek: Download “Diya” and banking applications only from official stores (Google Play, App Store). Do not trust third-party resources.
• Check banks and products: If there is no specific bank or product in the list of Natskeshbek participants on the official website, then you should not trust phone calls from “representatives” of these brands. Do not give them your personal data or tell them the codes in the SMS, because most likely they are talking to you with scammers.
• Beware of suspicious messages and calls: Do not respond to messages or calls requesting sensitive information. Check the information yourself through official channels.
• Review transactions regularly and set limits on online payments and cash withdrawals.
• Keep track of all transactions on your cashback card. If you see any suspicious transactions, contact your bank immediately.

Be careful, verify information through official channels, and let your refund work for you, not for scammers.