The Central Bank has issued a warning about a new fraud tactic where criminals promise to return money in cash at the Bank of Russia’s reception area. The alert appeared in an official publication shared through a Telegram channel associated with Bank departments.
In this scheme, scammers threaten victims with withdrawals from their own accounts and instruct them to transfer funds to a so-called “safe” account controlled by the Central Bank. They then promise to hand over the cash in person at the Bank of Russia reception in Moscow, luring victims into handing over control of their funds.
There are reports that victims could face legal consequences for sharing details about the investigation. Eventually, the scammers gain the victim’s trust by arranging a personal meeting through a short contact line associated with the Bank of Russia, after which the convincing interlocutors push the victim to transfer money directly to the criminals.
The Central Bank also noted the total amount stolen from Russian accounts in the second quarter, highlighting the scale of such frauds. Law enforcement and banking authorities have stressed that legitimate banks never require customers to move funds through unverified channels, nor promise cash returns in this manner.
Earlier this year, the same criminals expanded their toolkit by introducing a SIM card-based technique to complicate traces and further manipulate victims. This evolution demonstrates how scammers continually adapt to exploit new technologies and payment methods, making vigilance essential for account holders and businesses alike.
Experts advise that individuals should always verify unexpected requests by contacting the bank through official channels, avoid sharing confidential information, and refrain from initiating transfers based on pressure or fear. If a message or call seems suspicious, reporting it to the bank and relevant authorities can prevent losses and help stop fraudulent activity. The public is encouraged to stay informed by consulting official Central Bank advisories and avoiding unverified sources of information. Citations: Central Bank communications, emergency banking advisories, and regulatory notices.