Recently, the Republic of Moldova has seen a significant increase in phone and online fraud attempts. Unknown individuals contact citizens on behalf of banks, public institutions, or financial companies, attempting to obtain confidential information or gain access to personal accounts and devices.

Fraudsters use various pretexts to create panic or psychological pressure, such as suspicious transactions, non-existent loans, accidents, fines, fake prizes, or blocked accounts.

Authorities have also reported the circulation of fake emails and SMS messages allegedly sent on behalf of official institutions.

Most common fraud schemes

Fake calls on behalf of banks or police
Individuals are contacted by persons pretending to be bank representatives or law enforcement officers and informed about “fraudulent loans,” “suspicious transactions,” or “compromised accounts.”

Requests for SMS verification codes
Under various pretexts, such as parcel delivery, transaction confirmation, or identity verification, victims are asked to disclose the code received via SMS.

Access to phones or laptops
Fraudsters request the installation of applications or access to personal devices, claiming to provide technical support or service updates.

Fake links and alarming messages
SMS messages or notifications containing fake links related to fines, blocked accounts, or urgent payments are being distributed.

How to recognize a fraud attempt

Be cautious if:

• you are asked for OTP/SMS codes, PINs, passwords, or card details;
• you are pressured to act urgently;
• you are asked to install applications or allow access to your device;
• you receive “documents” or “identification cards” via WhatsApp, Viber, or Telegram;
• you are told to keep the conversation secret;
• you are encouraged to access unknown links.

EuroCreditBank recommendations

• Never disclose confidential information, SMS codes, passwords, or PINs over the phone;

• Do not install applications at the request of unknown persons;

• Do not access links received from suspicious sources;

• Verify any information only through the bank’s official communication channels;

• Immediately end suspicious calls and contact the institution directly using the official phone number;

• Notify the authorities if you have been targeted by a fraud attempt.

The security of your data and accounts also depends on your vigilance against manipulation attempts. Stay informed and discuss these fraud schemes with your loved ones, especially vulnerable individuals.

Stay vigilant and use only the bank’s official communication channels.