Beware of fraud risks ahead of Eid al-Adha

Fraudulent activities are on the rise ahead of Eid al-Adha. Muharrem Baki, Head of the Cyber Security Commission of TÜKONFED, stated that fake sacrificial donation websites are often created using domain names similar to those of reputable charitable organizations. Noting that these sites can have professional-looking interfaces, Baki said they are spread through social media advertisements and SMS campaigns.

Baki emphasized that scammers not only collect money but also seize personal information. "Beyond transactions made with credit card details, fake accounts are created using identity information. Mobile phones are compromised, and further fraud is committed through SMS verification systems," he said.

WAYS TO PROTECT AGAINST FRAUD

Muharrem Baki listed the points citizens should pay attention to:

• Type the official web address of the institution you are donating to yourself.
• Be careful with advertisements that appear at the top of Google searches.
• Be suspicious if the IBAN number contains an individual's first and last name.
• Check whether the site starts with 'https' and look for a security certificate.
• Report suspicious sites via the BTK (Information and Communication Technologies Authority) reporting website.

ADVICE FOR FRAUD VICTIMS

Stating that fraud victims should first contact their banks to stop transactions, Baki recommended that they then file a criminal complaint at the nearest police station or the Office of the Chief Public Prosecutor. He also emphasized that victims should save screenshots, message logs, payment receipts, and website links.

Baki urged citizens to be vigilant, saying, "Let us not give ground to digital scammers while performing our sacrificial worship. Remember; you are not donating with a click, you are falling into a trap with a click. May your sacrifice be accepted this holiday, and may your data and money be in safe hands."

News Source: 12punto