Bulgaria Launches Campaign to Prevent Financial Fraud Online
As part of the European Cyber Security Month, Bulgarian banks have joined forces with Europol and private and public sector partners to launch an information campaign against popular types of online fraud. The goal is to educate customers on how to protect themselves from cybercriminals who use sophisticated tricks to steal their personal data and financial information.
Common Types of Online Fraud
According to Europol, some of the most common types of online fraud include:
- CEO Fraud: Scammers pose as a CEO or senior representative to trick victims into paying fake invoices or making unauthorized transfers.
- Invoice Fraud: Criminals pretend to be clients or suppliers to trick users into paying future invoices into different bank accounts.
- Phishing and Smishing Attacks: Victims are tricked into sharing personal, financial, or security information.
- Spoofed Bank Website Fraud: Fake bank websites are used to steal login credentials and financial information.
- Romance Scams: Scammers pose as romantic partners to gain trust and extract money from victims.
- Personal Data Theft: Cybercriminals steal sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and personal identification data.
The Internet: A Breeding Ground for Cybercriminals
The internet has become a breeding ground for cybercriminals who use social engineering tactics to manipulate people into revealing sensitive information. The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated these processes, with more people opting for online shopping and mobile applications.
Staying Safe from Financial Fraud
To stay safe from financial fraud, experts advise raising awareness and training on how to protect oneself from cyberattacks. The Association of Banks in Bulgaria and its members are committed to educating the public about identifying fraudulent techniques and supporting relevant institutions to prevent financial crimes.
Resources for Staying Safe Online
For more information on common types of cyber fraud, customers can visit banking institution websites or social media channels. Additionally, informative brochures and videos have been published to provide tips and advice on how to stay safe online.