The latest version of banking scam runs on the most loved chat by Italians: WhatsApp. Every day we receive fake account closure e-mails in our e-mails and by now we have had a call. We also answer incoming calls from abroad, with fake banking operators who ask us to check deadlines, password and security codes. And here too we close the communication immediately and report.
Here is the latest found on Linkedin: they write to us from fake profiles of politicians, royal families, big-name entrepreneurs and famous people. And they ask us to move to chat privately on Telegram or WhatsApp. From here, sooner or later, they ask to make payments with telephone top-ups, postal accounts or credit cards. Modest or significant figures, in favor of their foundations and non-profit associations.
But, now, the scammers have found a way to contact us directly, through the chat we trust the most, Whatsapp. To try to empty our checking account. Here’s how the link scam works, explained by the Savings and Family Experts of ProiezionidiBorsa.
Suspect immediately, since the flirtatious message
Beware of the current account emptied by scammers via WhatsApp. First of all, a flirt message arrives, accompanied by the logo of our bank, which appears in the profile picture. And this should already make us suspicious. But most people don’t think about it.
Our bank usually sends us an e-mail or calls us, why should they write to us on WhatsApp and ask for personal data and codes? The message says there is a bank transfer to be checked before crediting. Or that we have to click a link to confirm some data and modify others. Or that the new contractual conditions must be signed online, which are sent as an attachment.
By clicking as requested, you end up on a page that completely replicates the home page of our bank. They ask us to follow instructions and enter our codes, then wait. While we wait, they are emptying our checking account.
Beware of the current account emptied by scammers via WhatsApp
To realize that it is a fake, and not to take these communications, you have to look up in the site address. It is immediately clear that this is not the bank or the post office credit manager. We have to get out of communication. And be careful not to do anything by following the instructions.
You must report the incident to your branch, even with the help of a family member. If it happens on the weekend, you can write an e-mail to the bank’s headquarters or call the State Police. Which has a section called “Police post” , with personnel specialized in cybercrime.
Finally, it is better to use another phone or a PC to check your account and change your password. It is always best to check that where we have our savings, everything is really okay.
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