Cyprus: Millions Lost to Online Scams

Millions of euros have been lost in Cyprus in the past year due to online scams. Fraudsters are using various tactics to extract personal information and money from citizens and companies.

According to the police, reports of scams have increased significantly. Methods include misleading emails, phone calls, and fake stories on social media.

Notable cases include scams involving fake cryptocurrency investments and romance scams through social media, where victims have lost tens or hundreds of thousands of euros.

Authorities are urging the public to be especially careful and not to disclose personal information or send money to strangers.

Methods Used:

• Fake tax refunds
• Unpaid invoices and fines
• Supposed packages from courier companies
• Redemption of points from supermarkets and petroleum companies
• Cryptocurrency investments
• Scams involving alleged medical expenses
• Social media scams citing financial problems