Financial Security: What Everyone Needs to Know
Types of fraud
We examine the most common types of fraud and explain how to recognize it in time.
Common schemes
What are the most common scams used by scammers and how does each scheme work?
Practical recommendations
Practical rules for financial security that everyone should know
If you encounter scammers
What to do and where to go if you encounter fraudulent activity
Types of fraud
Phishing (via SMS, email, calls)
The targeted distribution of false messages imitating official notifications from banks, payment systems, marketplaces, or government agencies
QR Code Scams
Use of fake QR codes that lead to fake payment pages or change transfer details
Social engineering
A method in which scammers use psychological techniques to obtain confidential information, access systems, or induce the victim to perform certain actions.
Fake websites and apps
Creating copies of official websites and mobile applications to steal personal data or money
Fraud in messengers
Fraud through popular instant messengers (Telegram, WhatsApp, Viber, etc.), often using fake accounts
Financial Security: What Everyone Needs to Know
Social engineering
Posing as an employee of a bank, law enforcement agency, or government agency in order to persuade the victim to hand over card details.
Creating a sense of urgency
— “Your account is blocked, transfer money to a “safe” account.”Pressure on emotions (fear, greed, sense of duty).
Phishing (via SMS , email, calls)
SMS with a link to a fake website to enter login/password.
Email with a fake form or invoice.
Calls (vishing) , where the attacker, posing as a bank security service, clarifies “confirming data”.
Fake websites and apps
A domain that is similar to the official one, but contains extra characters or errors.
Missing HTTPS certificate or fake certificate.
Requirement to enter full card details, CVV code, and online banking passwords.
QR code scams
Putting a fake QR sticker over the original in a cafe, store or parking lot.
Sending QR code in a messenger "for payment" with substituted details.
Fraud in messengers
The scammer pretends to be a friend or relative and asks for an urgent money transfer.
Creation of fake groups or channels with “investment projects” and promises of high profits.
Sale of non-existent goods/services with a requirement for prepayment.
Common schemes: browse by category
Common Scams - Recognize Them Right Away
False trouble
Fraudsters call or write, posing as law enforcement officers, hospital employees, or lawyers, and report that your loved one has allegedly been in an accident, detained, or is in serious condition.
Target:to cause shock and force a quick transfer of money “for treatment” or “to resolve the issue.”
Signs:
Request for urgent money transfer.
Refusal to allow the opportunity to speak with a relative.
Using scary phrases ("if you don't pay, it will get worse").
Example:a call from an "investigator" who demands money be transferred to "close the case" against a relative.
Practical recommendations
This section contains simple and effective tips to help reduce the risk of fraud and keep your finances safe. By following these recommendations, you can recognize threats early and protect yourself from fraudulent activity.
Never disclose codes, PIN, CVV
Banks and payment systems never request your PIN, card CVV, or one-time passwords from SMS or push notifications. If you receive a call or email with such a request, it's 100% a scam. Even bank employees, law enforcement agencies, or government agencies don't need this information to help you.
Check the website address and phone number
Before entering your details, make sure the website uses HTTPS (see the lock in the address bar). Check the domain name (scammers often substitute letters or use similar symbols, such as "bunk" instead of "bank"). When calling, check the number—it's best to call the official bank number listed on the website or card.
Set limits on transactions
Set daily and one-time limits for cards and accounts in mobile banking. Limits will help minimize damage in the event of a card or account compromise. For large transactions, use pre-approval (via the call center or app).
Set up transaction notifications
Enable SMS or push notifications for all incoming and outgoing transactions. Prompt notifications will help you quickly spot unauthorized charges and block your card.
Use Face ID/two-factor authentication
Enable biometric authentication (Face ID, Touch ID) to log in to the mobile app and confirm transactions. Activate two-factor authentication (2FA) in online banking and email services. This creates an additional barrier even if your login and password are stolen.
Fraud protection algorithm
First steps in case of fraud
Emergency measures
What to do immediately after contacting scammers: stop communicating, protect your money, change your passwords, and secure evidence. Here's a step-by-step guide for the first few hours and days, including what to do if funds have already been debited.
Further actions and data protection
Statements, investigations, prohibitions
What to do if personal data has been leaked or money has already been lost: what to write to the bank, how to assist the investigation, and what mistakes to avoid.
Financial Security: What Everyone Needs to Know
Checklist
Stop contact → Block card/account → Change passwords + 2FA.
Recording of evidence.
Bank: application, challenge, application number.
Platform/service: complaint and blocking of the scammer's account.
Law enforcement agency: application with attachments.
Devices/SIM: check, remove software, reissue if necessary.
Monitoring: notifications, limits, statement control.
