The Republic of Moldova is recording a record number of phone fraud attempts in 2026. Scammers are posing as bank employees, public institution officials, or even financial service companies to obtain confidential data. Paynet informs you and urges you to remain vigilant.
The National 112 Service recently reported an alarming increase in phone fraud attempts. Between April 27 and 29, 2026 alone, 385 calls were reported by citizens targeted by various scam schemes. According to authorities, scammers pretend to be representatives of banks or public institutions, or claim to act on behalf of relatives, citing fake situations, non-existent prizes, loans, suspicious transactions, or accidents, to induce panic and force victims to provide personal data or transfer money.
In May 2026, the police warned citizens about a new online scam attempt involving fake emails and SMS messages sent on behalf of the Cybercrime Combatting Center and the NBM (National Bank of Moldova).
Most frequently used schemes
🏦 The "Bank Employee" or the "Police" Unknown individuals call citizens, posing as police officers and claiming the existence of "illegal loans". To appear credible, they send fake images of IDs via WhatsApp, Telegram, or Viber.
📦 "The Package to Confirm" Victims are informed about an alleged shipment to be delivered by courier. Under this pretext, a verification code is sent to them via SMS, and they are urged to share the code over the phone.
📱 The "Telecom Operator" requests device access Victims are contacted via WhatsApp or Viber by individuals claiming to be mobile network operators under the pretext of optimizing services, providing urgent technical assistance, or preventing account suspension.
🚔 "Traffic Fines" via SMS and fake links The General Police Inspectorate (IGP) reports attempts where citizens receive SMS messages and calls from alleged police officers, notifying them that they have been fined for traffic violations and urging them to click a link to pay the fine.
How do you recognize a fraudulent call?
Scammers exploit strong emotions, such as panic, urgency, fear, or the hope of a quick profit, to force the victim to act quickly without verifying the facts. The conversation may seem professional, calm, and even "helpful."
Be vigilant if:
🔴 They urgently request OTP codes, PINs, passwords, or card details
🔴 They ask you to install an app or grant access to your phone/laptop
🔴 They send you "IDs" or "official documents" via WhatsApp/Viber/Telegram
🔴 They claim an emergency: a relative's accident, a blocked account, or a fine that must be paid immediately
🔴 They promise guaranteed and fast financial gains
🔴 You are pressured not to tell anyone about the conversation
What should you do?
✅ Immediately hang up any call where confidential data is requested
✅ Never disclose your ID details, card number, PIN code, password, or OTP/SMS codes over the phone
✅ Verify any information by calling the institution's official number directly
✅ Do not click on links in SMS or messages from unknown numbers
✅ Do not install applications at the request of callers
✅ Notify the Police if you have been targeted by a fraud attempt
The most effective method to combat fraud is information: knowing the frequently used schemes, staying calm when facing a suspicious call, and categorically refusing to share any confidential data over the phone.
Stay safe. Inform your loved ones too.
