August in cyberspace: fraudsters did not take a summer holiday

August in cyberspace: fraudsters did not take a summer holiday

According to Dorel Albin, Chief Analyst of the Analysis and Prevention Department of RIA, it seems that cybercriminals have not taken a summer break, as various types of fraud are still widespread in Estonia. ‘In August, it was reported that cybercriminals committed invoice fraud, posed as bank employees or police officers, and sent fraudulent emails and messages claiming to be sent on behalf of reputable companies,’ Albin explained.

For example, on 3 August, a sports association discovered that it had fallen victim to an invoice scam. The fraudster posed as an employee of a travel agency and offered athletes accommodation during competitions in Lithuania. When the invoice was paid, more than 3,000 euros were transferred to the fraudster’s account.

Last month, scam emails sent under the names of Elisa and Telia were particularly prevalent, concerning the overpayment or non-payment of invoices. Fraudulent messages were also sent claiming to be from SmartPosti, stating that the address needed to be updated for a parcel to be delivered.

According to Albin, all these schemes have the same goal – to obtain information and money from the victim. ‘Criminals use both technical means and psychology, stressing urgency or threatening additional charges, for example. Therefore, the most effective protection is awareness and critical thinking – especially when you are unexpectedly asked for payment, passwords, or other information. If you receive a suspicious email or phishing message, do not click on any links contained therein or enter your personal data, but forward the message to [email protected] and delete it,’ Albin advised.

In August, RIA organised the CyberWizards international cybersecurity summer camp for girls in Kehtna, Rapla County. The aim of the camp is to spark young people’s interest in technology and cybersecurity. This year, 87 girls aged 13–16 from ten different countries registered for the camp.