Government's Home Department issues alert to Russian citizens regarding fraudulent correspondence claimed to be from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Warning Issued Over Telegram Scam Involving Fake Traffic Violation Notices
A new scam is circulating on the messaging app Telegram, targeting Russians with fake traffic violation notices that appear official and include personal data such as the recipient’s real name and car number. These notices usually arrive via email or messaging apps and contain a PDF attachment referencing an official decree.
The messages prompt the recipient to pay a fine promptly by clicking a "pay now" button, which directs them to fraudulent websites. On these sites, victims are asked to enter their bank card details or may unknowingly download malware designed to steal passwords, access banking apps and messengers, and even activate the device’s camera and microphone.
The potential consequences for victims include unauthorized transactions on their bank cards, personal data theft, and compromised security of their devices, leading to further privacy violations and financial losses. Victims can lose control over their banking and communication apps and suffer from invasive spyware, which may result in ongoing exploitation or identity theft.
The scammers exploit the urgency and apparent official nature of the notice to pressure victims into quick action, increasing the risk of falling for the fraud. It is unclear if the MVD has provided any specific advice or precautions for users to avoid falling victim to this new scam.
In other cases, scammers on Telegram give channel administrators gifts with links to drug stores, casinos, or prohibited sites. The MVD did not specify whether the scam on Telegram also involves requests for sensitive information or malicious software downloads.
The MVD warned Russians in early August about a new scam involving digital gifts on Telegram promoting prohibited content. However, they did not mention any connection between the current scam and the previous GIBDD scam involving fake traffic violation letters. The MVD did not provide any information on whether they are working with Telegram or other authorities to combat this new scam on their platform.
Following the link in the letter may lead to a fake site mimicking government or banking services. The MVD stated that the channel could be blocked by Roskomnadzor due to complaints from subscribers noticing such "gifts". Notifications of fines from government agencies only come through official channels, such as "Gosuslugi".
Users are advised to be vigilant and not click on any suspicious links, especially those containing personal data or financial information. If you receive a suspicious message, it is best to contact the relevant authorities for guidance.
[1] Source: https://www.rbc.ru/technology_and_media/08/08/2021/5f30949a9a79475369749638
- The new scam on Telegram, involving fake traffic violation notices, is a significant cybersecurity concern in the realm of general-news and crime-and-justice, as it can lead to unauthorized transactions, personal data theft, and compromised technology security.
- Victims of this Telegram scam may experience various forms of crime-and-justice issues, such as financial losses, identity theft, and privacy violations, making it essential for users to exercise vigilance and report any suspicious messages to relevant authorities.
){kind=link}