MIA: Victims have a crucial hour to minimize consequences after being defrauded.
If an individual falls victim to a scam, they have a critical `golden hour` to mitigate the damage. This warning was issued to Russian citizens by Irina Volk, official representative of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), via Telegram.
“When a person`s accounts, devices, or online service profiles have been compromised due to the actions of fraudsters, they enter a `golden hour,` akin to the critical period for emergency medical aid,” Volk stated.
She elaborated that during this crucial hour, victims should promptly change all compromised passwords and access codes for banking services. Additionally, the MIA representative advised freezing all affected cards and bank accounts, and contacting the bank directly using the official phone number provided on their website.
Volk emphasized the importance of informing bank staff about the scam interaction, including providing the phone number from which the fraudsters called.
The ministry also advised that if the victim still retains access to their personal accounts, they should immediately review any actions the fraudsters might have taken on their behalf, such as granting unauthorized permissions. The MIA recommended disconnecting any unfamiliar devices logged into their accounts.
If there`s any suspicion that the victim`s phone number has been compromised, it is crucial to contact the mobile service provider. Volk urged vigilance regarding incoming messages about SIM card blocking or reissuance.
Finally, she advised warning all relatives and acquaintances that scammers might attempt to contact them pretending to be the victim.
Previously, Russians were warned about fraudsters leveraging Telegram`s gift features for illicit advertising, reportedly using this method to disseminate links to online casinos or extremist websites.
