Recent reports indicate a surge in phone fraud across Russia.criminals impersonate employees of mobile operators and push people to hand over verification codes. The official Telegram channel of the Directorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia for countering illegal information and communication technology misuse, known as the Cyber Police Bulletin of Russia, has highlighted this problem.
Experts say the scam typically starts with a call from someone claiming a request to change the mobile operator’s number has been filed. The caller then asks the gullible user to provide an SMS code that supposedly confirms a password change on the user’s account. If the code is disclosed, the attackers gain control over the victim’s access and can lock them out of their personal online profiles.
It is essential to stress that legitimate mobile operators never ask for SMS verification codes or personal data over the phone or in messages. Telecom representatives usually contact customers from official, short-number lines, not personal numbers. This distinction helps users identify genuine support from a potential scam attempt.
The overarching aim of these fraudsters is to seize control of a user’s phone and, by extension, access to online banking and other sensitive services linked to the number. Once control is obtained, attackers can move quickly to drain accounts or perform unauthorized transactions.
Experts advise citizens to stay vigilant and avoid sharing any personal information or codes received unsolicited over the phone. If a suspicious call arrives, end the conversation and contact the customer service line of the mobile operator using a number found on the carrier’s official website or on a recent bill. This practice helps verify whether a request is genuine.
Authorities are encouraging the public to report suspicious communications to the cyber crime units and to keep devices updated with the latest security patches. Individuals should enable multi-factor authentication where available and regularly review account activity for unusual sign-ins or requests. Even small steps, such as confirming the caller’s identity through the official operator channel, can prevent large losses.
There is a growing perception that scammers are leveraging popular messaging services to broaden their reach. While WhatsApp remains widely used across the country, users should treat unexpected messages demanding data or codes with extra caution. The Cyber Police Bulletin of Russia notes that this trend requires ongoing awareness and swift reporting to minimize impact on residents.
In summary, the main precautionary message is simple: never disclose verification codes or personal data to unsolicited callers, and always verify requests through official operator channels. Staying informed and cautious can significantly reduce the risk of losing access to phones and financial services.
Citizens are urged to stay alert and share these warnings with family and friends so that more people can recognize and avoid similar schemes. The Ministry of Internal Affairs emphasizes that timely reporting and careful verification are crucial to countering this evolving fraud landscape.
According to official guidance, the best defense remains a careful verification process, a habit of using official contact points, and a readiness to question any unusual request. Sources: Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, Cyber Police Bulletin attribution.