Internet fraudsters are exploiting the floods that hit southwestern Poland to conduct fraud, including creating fake phishing sites and fake charity collections. The fake sites are often styled as authentic news sites, and their goal is to trick users into revealing their personal and financial information, such as credit card numbers or email addresses. Facebook posts are also being published, reporting on children allegedly missing during the floods. This false information often appears in the form of paid advertisements or articles that seem credible, but are in fact an attempt to scam people.

The Central Bureau for Combating Cybercrime has previously warned against such activities, including fake collections and fake RCB alerts that are designed to mislead people.

Informujemy, że każdy kto padł ofiarą oszustwa TYLKO I WYŁĄCZNIE w związku z sytuacją powodziową, tj. fałszywej zbiórki, alertu RCB lub przejęcia konta w mediach społecznościowych, może przekazać taką informację na adres e-mail:
kontakt.cbzc@cbzc.policja.gov.pl pic.twitter.com/TF46GJgppk

— Centralne Biuro Zwalczania Cyberprzestępczości (@PolicjaCBZC) September 18, 2024

Phishing sites can also collect contact details, such as phone numbers and email addresses, which are later used in further attacks. An example of this is spoofing, which involves impersonating well-known people or institutions in order to manipulate victims into transferring money or login details. Payment card details entered on such sites can then be used by fraudsters to rob bank accounts.

To avoid being scammed?

use only official and verified sources of information,
regularly monitor the announcements of state institutions,
avoid sensational news that call for quick action, such as transferring money or providing data. thoroughly verify each charity collection so that the aid goes to those in need and not to fraudsters.

It is recommended to check information in several sources and avoid acting under the influence of emotions.

Source: cyberdefence24.pl