Expert Permyakov Discusses Five New Deceptive Schemes in Cyberspace
In the digital age, it's essential to remain vigilant against online fraud. Ruslan Permyakov, the Deputy Director of the NTI Competency Center "Trustworthy Interaction Technologies," has highlighted several schemes that Russians should be aware of.
1. Joint Movie Viewing Scams
Scammers may invite you to watch a movie online together, but their real intention is to pressure you into installing malicious software or sharing payment information. Be cautious of unsolicited invitations, requests for downloading unfamiliar apps or extensions, and unusual requests for payment or personal information during the event. Only accept invitations from trusted friends and verify verbally. Use reputable streaming services instead of random links, and never install software from unverified sources.
2. Fake Lottery and Government Agency Websites
Scammers create convincing websites claiming lottery winnings or the need to verify government details. To identify these fraudulent sites, check URLs carefully, as official agency sites usually have trusted domain endings (.gov, .edu, etc.) and secure HTTPS connections. Remember, lottery winnings are never claimed by unsolicited contacts. Look for grammar mistakes, poor design, and pressure tactics urging immediate action. If in doubt, never share personal or financial information on suspicious sites. Verify claims directly with official government or lottery organizations through independent contact channels.
3. Admission Scams (Fake University or Course Offers)
Scammers may promise admission to educational institutions or courses for a fee or personal information. To avoid falling victim to these scams, verify the institution on official educational directories, be suspicious of unsolicited offers claiming guaranteed admission, and avoid paying fees before official confirmation. Contact institutions directly via their official websites and do independent research about the program and reviews. Treat sensitive documents (ID/passport info) cautiously and only when certain of legitimacy.
4. Telephone Fraud Using Deepfakes
Scammers use AI-generated voices or videos to impersonate trusted individuals, like relatives or officials, persuading you to send money or reveal information. To identify these scams, be aware of unexpected calls asking for urgent help or money, even if voices sound familiar. Be suspicious of requests to keep the call or reason secret and watch for inconsistencies in the conversation or background noise. Hang up and call back using a number you trust or already have, confirm identity through other communication means, and avoid sharing sensitive info or sending money without verification.
5. Job Offers for Translations (Dropping Scams)
Fake translation job offers may ask you to receive and forward parcels/money (dropping), which may be part of money laundering or trafficking schemes. To identify these scams, be wary of job offers promising unusually high pay for simple translation tasks, requests to handle physical goods or money as part of your duties, and a lack of formal contract or company information. Research the company thoroughly before engagement, never agree to receive or send packages or money on behalf of an employer, and report suspicious job offers to job sites or authorities.
General Tips to Protect Yourself
- Verify everything: Always double-check the authenticity of offers, messages, or calls.
- Use official channels: Contact agencies, institutions, and companies through their known official websites and numbers.
- Keep software updated: Use antivirus and anti-malware tools.
- Be cautious with links and attachments: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
- Educate yourself: Stay informed about common scams and tactics scammers use.
- Report scams: Notify relevant authorities or platforms if you encounter fraud attempts.
Additionally, use two-factor authentication and strong passwords for banks, "Gosuslugi," and social networks. Always remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stay safe and protect your personal information online.
- In the realm of cybersecurity, it's crucial to consider the risks associated with conversations involving joint movie viewing events, as scammers often use such opportunities to push malicious software or financial information.
- Being aware of general-news and crime-and-justice-related events, it's essential to stay vigilant about fraudulent websites pretending to be lottery agencies or government departments, which are designed to extract personal and financial information.
