The Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation (MVD) has released a detailed analysis of five common scams used by fraudsters to lure citizens into carrying out acts of sabotage. These acts target critical infrastructure—including military installations, law enforcement and government buildings, banks, and social service institutions—and the findings come from the MVD’s Department for Combating the Illicit Use of Information and Communication Technologies.
Deceptive Tactics
According to the report, the methods employed by these scammers are highly sophisticated, relying on psychological manipulation. Fraudsters often exploit citizens’ emotions by making false promises and issuing threats. One common tactic involves inviting individuals to “assist law enforcement” in apprehending criminals, thereby fabricating a so-called special operation. This creates the illusion of collaborating with the authorities, effectively masking the illicit nature of the victim’s actions.
Another prevalent strategy is the manipulation of fear and despair. Scammers claim they can recover stolen funds, rescue endangered relatives, or even halt criminal prosecution if the victim complies with their demands. Invariably, these actions involve causing damage to state or public facilities—a grave offence under the law.
A further element of these schemes is the promise of a “bonus” for participating in the crime, which serves to cloud judgement and undermine rational decision‑making. The MVD emphasises that even actions committed under duress are subject to criminal liability and can result in severe penalties, including long prison sentences.
Warning Against Telephone Schemes
The MVD is keen to stress that law enforcement authorities never recruit citizens for covert operations via phone calls. Nor are stolen funds ever recovered through such means. All matters concerning criminal prosecution are handled strictly through official channels and in accordance with established legislation.
The report highlights the manipulative nature of these scams, which employ psychological tactics designed to provoke strong emotions and prompt hasty decisions. Under stress and pressure, victims often fail to assess the situation properly, leading to ill-considered actions.
A new scam has also emerged involving the unauthorised withdrawal of large sums from victims’ bank accounts during prolonged telephone hold times. The scheme typically begins with an SMS instructing the recipient to return a call. Once the victim dials back, the fraudsters deliberately prolong the conversation, during which significant amounts are stealthily debited from the victim’s account. This method cleverly obscures the theft by suggesting that the loss is due to a technical glitch or operator error.
A Call for Vigilance
The MVD urges citizens to remain vigilant and cautious. It is crucial to remember that law enforcement will never ask for assistance in illegal activities over the phone. Should you receive any such messages or calls, you are advised to contact the police immediately.
All information related to criminal prosecution and the recovery of stolen funds is provided solely through official channels and never via unsolicited telephone calls. As scammers continue to use psychological pressure and deceit to coerce people into acting against their will, critical thinking and verification of information are essential for every citizen’s security.
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