Beware of Scammers in Ramadan: New Traps Have Emerged

Ramadan continues to be a period when scammers develop new tactics. Cyber ​​scammers collect money from citizens through fake messages spread through social media, SMS and WhatsApp, aiming to access personal data and bank accounts.
 
Fraud Methods Have Diversified
 
Cyber ​​scammers are trying to lure citizens into a trap by sending messages like, "You have won a Ramadan package" or "Your iftar reservation has been activated." People who ask for money under the names of "zakat", "fitra" and "Ramadan package aid" through fake accounts that present themselves as needy people are committing fraud by exploiting spiritual feelings.
 
Experts warn that clicking on malicious links in such messages, especially those sent to phones, could result in bank accounts being emptied and personal data being compromised. It is emphasized that aid campaigns should only be conducted through officially authorized organizations.
 
'The Person to be Helped Should Be Researched Well'
 
Aydın Ağaoğlu, President of the Consumer Confederation (TÜKONFED), stated that citizens who want to do good during Ramadan should be careful and said:
 
“Scammers who pose as needy people exploit the feelings of charitable people. They both extort money and seize personal data. Those who want to help should make their donations through official institutions, foundations and associations.”
 
'Free Cheese in a Mousetrap'
 
Consumers Union Chairman Mahmut Şahin drew attention to the fact that fraudulent methods are increasing and issued the following warning:
 
“Scammers are not only asking for help, they are also trying to trick people with messages like ‘you have won a gift certificate’. It should not be forgotten that free cheese is in a mousetrap. Citizens should not click on such messages and links. They should investigate whether the person is really in need when helping.”
 
Iftar Reservation Trap
 
One of the most common methods used by scammers during Ramadan is iftar reservation messages. Messages that say 'Your iftar reservation has been activated' aim to infiltrate phones and gain access to bank accounts through malicious links they contain.
 
Consumer associations state that fraudulent activities increase as the Ramadan holiday approaches, and emphasize that citizens should be cautious about all kinds of messages and calls.
 
 
 
Source: CUMHA - CUMHURS NEWS AGENCY