VTB has revealed a new, improved fraud scheme that began to spread in March, with an increasing number of complaints from customers. The main goal of the fraudsters is to create a false sense of security for the victim by convincing them that they do not need to provide codes from SMS messages when communicating with them.
In the first stage, fraudsters act on the level of psychological pressure, trying to confuse the client and cause them anxiety. For example, they may say that you need to wait on the line, and then allegedly discuss with colleagues that the "FSB general" will connect soon. In some cases, the conversation is unexpectedly interrupted, which makes the client think that this is indeed an official action.
Next, the victim receives an SMS message or email stating that an attempt to gain unauthorized access to their account in government services or a bank has been recorded. The message indicates that you need to call 8800 or change your password via a link. These numbers and links look very similar to the official ones, which makes the client think that they are contacting a real service. However, these links hide phishing sites where fraudsters gain access to the victim's personal data.
In the third stage, the client himself calls the fraudsters at the specified phone number or makes a transfer of funds, trusting the interlocutors. In the future, the attackers scare the client with threats and offer to transfer money to a "safe" account, open loans, or even transfer money through couriers. In some cases, fraudsters convince the client to install the Central Bank application and direct the client to the bank, where he himself transfers money through an ATM to a card controlled by criminals.
VTB experts strongly recommend always calling the bank at the numbers indicated on the bank card or official resources, and not clicking on links from SMS and mailings. It is also important to independently verify information through official applications and company websites to avoid falling into the trap of fraudsters.
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