Fraudsters use various methods to trick users into switching to fake Telegram bots that masquerade as official ones. Their main tool is the users' inattention.

How does this scheme work?

Fake chatbots : Scammers create bots that visually resemble official chatbots from banks and other institutions. They copy the logos, descriptions, and even the style of communication.

Grammatical tricks : Uses official names of banks or other institutions with minimal variations. A user may not notice the substitution when looking at the name in passing.

Fake verification badge : thanks to a premium subscription in Telegram, scammers add special stickers that imitate the official status of the account.

Social media scam : attackers send messages offering monetary assistance, compensation, or prizes , demanding that you go to a fake Telegram bot to complete an application.

Collection of personal data : after visiting a fraudulent resource, users are asked to enter payment card details, bank codes, passwords , etc., which leads to the theft of funds from accounts.

How to avoid fraud?

• Give preference to other channels of communication with banks and organizations: use the official website, mobile application, or official phone number of the bank or other institution.
• If you need to use a chatbot, find a link to it on the official website or in the official bank application. Do not agree to receive cash assistance via a chatbot.

If you have become a victim of fraud, submit an electronic appeal to the cyber police at the following link: https://ticket.cyberpolice.gov.ua .

Read more about how to protect yourself from fraud on the #FraudGoodbye website: https://promo.bank.gov.ua/stopfraud/ .