How this scam works
Scammers call you on the phone and pretend they are technicians with a well-known IT company or, less often, with a telecommunications service provider. Calls are usually made from a number abroad or an unknown caller ID, and the conversation is carried out in English.
They try to convince you that your computer or mobile device has been infected with malware and they offer to help you fix the problem. To do this, they ask you to install remote access software and grant them full access to your computer or mobile device.
They go on to request your e-Banking login credentials (Username and Password), as well as the One-Time-Password (OTP) you will receive on your mobile phone (SMS or Viber message), so that they may access your accounts and carry out fraudulent online transactions – usually cash transfers to accounts that belong to their accomplices.
If you happened to grant someone remote access or share your credentials, you must contact us immediately on +302103260000. After listening to the recording, say “suspicion of fraud” and your call will be immediately directed to an Alpha Bank employee.
For fraud-related issues, our helpline is available 24/7.
How to protect yourself
Such phone scams usually have some telling characteristics.
Tech support
It is very common for the scammers calling you on the phone to pretend they are a technician with a tech support or telecommunications company.
Do not answer any phone calls from anyone claiming there is a problem with your computer, if you have not requested technical support from the company yourself.
Caller unknown
Calls are usually made from a number abroad or an unknown caller ID, and the conversation is carried out in English.
Virus
A very common excuse for calling you is that your device has been infected with a virus, and they want to help you remove it. Under this false pretence, scammers try to get you to install remote access software, so that they may gain control of your device.
Credentials
Most of the times, they also ask you to provide your e-Banking credentials or even confirm a transaction via Push Notification. It goes without saying that you must never share your credentials with anyone.
Find out how to protect your credentials.