The Russian Interior Ministry reported on October 27 that fraudsters have begun targeting apartment renters by impersonating property owners. The scammers contact victims, claim to be landlords, and demand rent payments using fabricated banking details. Once the funds are transferred, they disappear without a trace.
The ministry urged tenants to verify any changes to banking information exclusively through direct communication with their landlords. It also emphasized that rent should only be paid via confirmed, established account details.
In addition, authorities revealed the creation of a centralized database to track digital footprints of cybercriminals, aiming to streamline identification efforts. Earlier reports highlighted a separate scheme where fraudsters stole personal data from Russians under the guise of job opportunities on online marketplaces. Such tactics have become increasingly prevalent in cybercrime operations.
