Beware of phone scams! Never share personal information, banking details, or transfer money at the request of unknown callers

Recently, there has been an increase in fraud attempts where unknown persons contact citizens and falsely inform them about loans allegedly contracted in their name. Through psychological pressure and inducing panic, criminals try to obtain personal data, pressure them into taking out a loan, or demand money transfers.

Fraudsters frequently change their scenarios to create a sense of urgency and influence victims’ decisions. Common pretexts include:

• “You are involved in fraud” or “A loan has been contracted in your name”;
• “You have won a household appliance”;
• “You are about to receive an urgent parcel today”;
• “You have an urgent letter from the tax authorities”;
• “You have a fine that must be paid immediately.”

During such calls, fraudsters often do not speak Romanian and request: personal data, banking details, confirmation codes received via SMS, confirmation of financial transactions, or access to personal apps and devices.

Warning signs to watch for:

• Requests for personal data over the phone;
• Unexpected calls from alleged bank employees or public institution representatives;
• Information about loans you never contracted;
• Pressure to act “quickly” or “immediately”;
• Statements meant to cause panic, such as “your money is at risk,” “someone is trying to access your account,” or “a loan has been contracted in your name”;
• Attempts to create fear, panic, or urgency to push you into decisions without verifying information;
• Requests not to inform relatives or colleagues under the pretext of “confidential procedures”;
• Requests to share your geolocation;
• Urging you to transfer money to so-called “safe accounts.”

Remember: fraudsters rely on emotional reactions and try to manipulate you through fear and pressure. If the caller makes you feel panicked, rushed, or forced to act immediately, end the conversation and contact your bank using official channels.

Key recommendations:

• Stay calm and analyze the situation before making any decision. There are no circumstances where you are obliged to carry out an immediate financial operation.
• If contacted by someone claiming to represent the bank, end the call and reach out to the institution using the official number displayed on its website or your card.
• No loan can be contracted without your direct participation. If you are told that a loan has been initiated in your name and asked to urgently act to “cancel” or “protect” it, it is most likely a fraud attempt.
• Never disclose personal data, passwords, confirmation codes, card details, or other confidential information. Bank and public institution representatives do not request such information over the phone.
• If you suspect you are speaking with a fraudster, end the conversation immediately. Even if you are convinced you have identified the fraud attempt, the safest option is not to continue the dialogue.

Staying vigilant, relying on accurate information, and verifying details through official sources are the most effective ways to protect yourself from fraud.

For more information, visit: https://bnm.md/ro/content/cum-te-protejezi-de-fraude-si-tentativele-de-inselaciune.

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