Fake utility bills: a new fraudulent scheme exposed in Ukraine
1 May 05:28
A new fraudulent scheme has been detected in Ukraine: citizens have started receiving fake utility bills. It is quite difficult to distinguish them from genuine receipts. This was reported by the BRAMA cyber police department, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
Recently, cases of fraud with fake utility bills have become more frequent in Ukraine. In mailboxes, emails, and even messengers, people find bills that look official at first glance, but actually funnel money into the pockets of scammers.
How does the fake payment scheme work?
Fraudsters operate according to the following scheme:
- copy the appearance of genuine utility bills;
- change bank details, indicating accounts that do not belong to the service provider;
- sometimes overstate the amounts to be paid to increase their profits;
- distribute fakes via mailboxes, email, messengers, and social media.
How to distinguish a fake payment from a real one?
To avoid becoming a victim of fraud, you should know a few simple rules:
1. Check bank details
Genuine payments contain the exact details of the official service provider. They can be checked on the company’s website or in the personal account of the mobile application.
2. Pay attention to the amount
Fake receipts often have suspiciously large amounts or do not match your previous payments.
3. Check the sender
Official bills are sent on behalf of utility companies. If you see an unknown organization, individual, or dubious email address, this is a reason to be wary.
What should I do if I receive a suspicious payment?
- Do not pay immediately! Check all the information on the document.
- Contact the official service provider – by phone, via the website, or in your personal account.
- Report the fraud to the police or cyber police.
- Warn your neighbors and friends to avoid massive fraud.
