Financial Crime World

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Cybercrime Soars in Bulgaria’s Finance Industry

As part of the European Cyber Security Month, Bulgarian banks are joining forces with Europol and private-public sector partners to launch an information campaign against the most common types of online fraud targeting customers’ personal data.

Types of Online Fraud

The Association of Banks in Bulgaria is publishing animated and video materials warning customers about:

  • CEO Fraud: Scammers posing as CEOs or senior representatives to trick victims into paying fake invoices or making unauthorized transfers.
  • Invoice Fraud: Scammers impersonating clients or suppliers to trick users into paying future invoices into a different bank account controlled by them.
  • Phishing/Smishing/Vishing: Cybercriminals using emails, texts, and phone calls to trick individuals into sharing personal, financial, or security information.
  • Spoofed Bank Website Fraud: Emails with links to fake websites that look like their legitimate counterparts.
  • Romance Scams: Scammers posing as romantic interests to obtain money and data.

The Rise of Online Frauds

According to Europol, these frauds are increasingly sophisticated and difficult to detect. The rise of mobile applications and the COVID-19 pandemic have accelerated the shift towards electronic channels for goods and services consumption, making individuals more vulnerable to financial and personal data theft.

Combating Cybercrime

To combat these threats, the Association of Banks in Bulgaria is committed to:

  • Raising public awareness about identifying fraudulent techniques online
  • Supporting efforts to protect individuals from financial and other crimes
  • Educating customers on how to protect themselves from cyberattacks and prevent falling prey to these scams

Learn More

More information on common types of cyber fraud can be found in information brochures, videos, and on the websites and social media channels of Bulgarian banking institutions.