Москва, 2 февраля 2025 года. МВД России сообщает о growing threat of phishing attacks perpetrated by fraudsters posing as representatives of the Ozon online store. According to the agency, these attackers lure victims with the offer of a 10,000 ruble promotional code purportedly in celebration of their birthday, requiring them to contact a ‘personal manager’ via WhatsApp.
The details of this fraudulent scheme highlight that once users engage with the scammers, they risk giving access to their accounts and personal information. The information was disseminated through a Telegram channel by the department tasked with combating the illegal use of information and communication technologies.
This alert comes in the wake of a broader trend of online scams. Recently, the management of Sheremetyevo Airport warned passengers about potential dangers when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks in the airport, stressing that the legitimate free network does not request personal data or authentication via messaging apps or government services. The airport’s press service urged travelers to remain vigilant to prevent identity theft.
In January, the police issued a warning about another scheme where fraudsters impersonate employees of management companies or medical institutions over the phone. They entice individuals to install rogue applications for utility bill payments or medical appointments, which ultimately provide scammers with remote access to personal devices and financial assets. The recent uptick in fraudulent schemes linked to e-commerce platforms has raised alarms among law enforcement.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs noted that many victims are attracted to these scams by a faux celebration tied to a personal milestone or holiday, with promises of monetary rewards. ‘On the website, they offer a promotional code of 10,000 rubles in honor of a birthday, but to receive it, one must connect with a deceptive ‘personal manager’ via WhatsApp,’ the ministry explained, outlining the tactics used by these criminals to exploit individuals.
As phishing schemes continue to evolve and proliferate, it is essential for internet users to maintain a high level of skepticism towards unsolicited offers, especially those requiring engagement through messaging applications. Individuals are advised to verify the authenticity of promotional offers from trusted sources before sharing any personal information.