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Bulgarian Cybercrime Association Warns of Rising Scam Threat

SOFIA, Bulgaria - The Bulgarian Cybercrime Association has sounded the alarm over a surge in scams targeting consumers and businesses in the country. In a recent report, the association highlighted two common types of scams: credit card fraud and ATM skimming.

Skimming Devices Used to Steal PINs and Card Information

Skimming devices are being used to steal personal identification numbers (PINs) and card information from unsuspecting victims at ATMs. These devices are often designed to look like genuine machine components, making them difficult to identify. Once the stolen information is obtained, criminals can use it to generate counterfeit cards or make illicit purchases.

Government Efforts to Address the Issue

The Bulgarian government has taken steps to address the issue by stepping up ATM surveillance and collaborating with financial institutions to strengthen security protocols. However, consumers and businesses continue to face this problem.

Scam Alert: Online Investment Scam Busted

In a recent operation, Bulgarian authorities took down an online investment scam that is believed to have caused losses of over EUR 10 million. The scam involved an international probe into the fraudulent platform, which was searched in Bulgaria.

Importance of Being Vigilant When Dealing with Online Transactions

The Bulgarian Cybercrime Association has warned citizens about the importance of being vigilant when dealing with online transactions. “With the rise of online scams, it’s essential for individuals and businesses to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect themselves,” said Alexandra Tsvetkova, Director of LIBRe Foundation.

How to Spot a Scam Website

In an effort to educate the public about online scams, the Bulgarian Cybercrime Association has provided tips on how to identify potential scam websites. Some common signs include:

Deals that are too good to be true
Lack of social media presence or fake social media links
Poor website design and grammar
No clear return policy or contact information

Getting Your Money Back from a Scammer

If you’ve fallen victim to an online scam, it’s essential to report the incident to the authorities. The Bulgarian Cybercrime Association advises consumers to file a dispute with PayPal within 180 calendar days of their purchase if they used the payment method.

Other payment methods, such as debit cards, credit cards, and bank transfers, have different procedures for getting your money back. It’s crucial to understand the terms and conditions of each payment method before using it online.

Report Suspicious Activity

The Bulgarian Cybercrime Association is urging citizens to be cautious when dealing with online transactions and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. “By working together, we can reduce the impact of scams on our community,” said Tsvetkova.

Report a Scam!

If you’ve fallen for a hoax or bought a fake product, report the site and warn others. The Bulgarian Cybercrime Association is committed to keeping citizens informed about online scams and providing tips on how to protect themselves.