The most popular cybersecurity threads and how to protect yourself from them

With the continuous growth of the digital environment, fraudulent practices are evolving to be more elaborate and credible. Nowadays, scammers attempt to deceive people using calls, messages, social media, and fake websites. The main tool they rely on is psychological influence. The primary goal never changes – to persuade individuals to voluntarily transfer their funds.

Scammers primarily deceive people in two ways: by instilling fear or by promising quick financial gains. Sometimes they claim your funds are at risk and immediate action is required; other times, they promise high returns in a short period.

Statistics show that, more often than not, people make hasty decisions and voluntarily transfer their money to scammers. However, by following a few simple rules, you can protect yourself and stay informed against such incidents.

So, what are the methods most commonly used by scammers? We present the information in detail below, and now let’s take a closer look together.

1. A call from a security service

Through this method, scammers present themselves as bank employees, law enforcement officials, or even representatives of the Central Bank. They often use foreign numbers, particularly those starting with +995. To build trust, they provide a name and position, and then instill fear, claiming that funds are at risk or that a loan is being processed in your name.

During the conversation, they may direct you to WhatsApp, initiate a video call, and send fake documents. The goal remains the same. The goal is to cause distress and manipulate you into sending money, sharing card information, or transferring funds elsewhere.

Remember, bank employees never call from foreign numbers, contact you via WhatsApp, or request your card details or money transfers. Funds cannot be transferred without your direct approval and participation.

2. Fake Investment Platforms

Scammers often place advertisements under the guise of investment platforms. Although these ads mostly appear on YouTube and Instagram, they can also be found on other platforms. In the videos, they use the names of major companies, well-known businessmen, and public figures to create a sense of credibility.

Upon completing the form, they introduce themselves as “financial advisors” or “brokers.” They explain the benefits of the investment in detail, even conducting “training,” and request that funds be transferred via card. Balances and “income” appear on the app or platform, yet it’s important to remember that these figures are false.

This fraudulent process may last several weeks. They persuade you to make additional investments, claiming that you are investing in oil, gold, agricultural products, or cryptocurrency. However, when you try to withdraw your earnings, various excuses are presented, such as “taxes,” “insurance,” or “currency control”, etc.

The reality is that there is no real investment or genuine profit. The transferred funds are considered lost. The goal is to obtain as much money as possible until you stop.

3. Suspicious messages from a "friend"

Scammers frequently hijack social network profiles, especially on WhatsApp. A link is provided to the user for voting, submitting a comment, or participate in a survey. Upon clicking the link, a phone number and SMS verification code are requested.

In reality, this code is used to access the social media account. Once the code is entered, the account is hijacked, and requests for money are sent to all contacts: “I urgently need cash, I’ll repay you tomorrow.” The card details are sent together with the message.

People receiving the message might send money, thinking it is from a friend or family member.

To protect yourself from such situations, do not click on unknown links or share your information on suspicious websites. If you receive a request for money, always contact the person through another channel to verify the information.

4. Advance payment requests with a loan offer

In some cases, scammers post ads promising loans under favorable conditions. Upon contact, quick approval and attractive interest rates are offered. However, before the loan is formalized, payment is demanded under the guise of a “commission,” “interest,” or “deposit”. After the customer transfers the funds, contact is terminated, and it becomes evident that no loan will be given.

It’s important to remember that banks never demand payment in advance for a loan. Demands like these are one of the tricks scammers often use.

So, what key points should you remember?

    Regardless of who they are, do not transfer money at the request of a third party.
    If you feel pressure or threat over the phone, end the conversation immediately.
    Never share verification codes received via SMS with anyone.
    Do not share your card number, expiration date, or CVV code with anyone. All this information can be used to withdraw funds.
    Use links solely from verified and trustworthy sources.
    Do not enter your card or personal information on suspicious websites.
    Check messages requesting financial assistance and do not trust them right away.
    Always remain aware by following updates related to cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity begins with the attention and responsibility of each individual. Being informed and making rational choices are key factors that protect you from potential risks.