Fraudulent scheme utilizing mailboxes has been flagged by VTB as a potential concern
In a recent development, Dmitry Revyakin, a prominent figure, has issued a warning against following instructions from unknown parties to "save" money. The warning comes in response to a growing scheme where scammers pose as bank employees or law enforcement officers, aiming to steal money from unsuspecting citizens.
The modus operandi of these scammers involves requiring immediate withdrawal of money from victims, which is then supposed to be temporarily stored in mailboxes or interoffice mailboxes. Once the money is deposited, couriers are reportedly targeting these locations to steal the funds.
This scheme has been reported in the news, with the "Khabarovsk Krai Today" news agency and VTB citing its occurrence. Banks and law enforcement agencies do not ask individuals to move money, especially cash, to secure it.
To combat this, banks and law enforcement agencies handle situations involving immediate withdrawal or temporary storage of savings through a combination of strict verification procedures, consumer education, and advanced technology.
Firstly, stringent identity verification and transaction monitoring are implemented. Banks verify identities for large or suspicious transactions, and suspicious transactions trigger identity checks. Temporary storage or holding of funds could involve placing holds or restrictions until the customer's identity and intent are confirmed.
Secondly, banks may encourage or offer products like no-penalty Certificates of Deposit (CDs), which allow withdrawal without fees after a short waiting period. Regular CDs impose penalties for early withdrawal, serving as a deterrent to sudden, potentially scam-induced withdrawals.
Thirdly, financial institutions emphasize ongoing public education to increase awareness of phone scams, especially among vulnerable demographics. Banks train staff and customers to recognise emotional manipulation tactics commonly used in scams, reducing the likelihood of impulsive or coerced withdrawals.
Fourthly, advanced technological measures are employed, such as AI-powered transaction monitoring systems that detect suspicious activity. Collaborative intelligence sharing between banks and law enforcement across jurisdictions enhances detection and prevention of scams that often cross borders.
Lastly, law enforcement agencies work closely with banks to respond swiftly when suspicious activity is detected, sometimes enabling temporary freezing or controlled disbursement of funds while investigations occur. Transnational cooperation, intelligence sharing, and legal frameworks support protective measures against scam-related financial crimes.
If a customer suspects a scam call, banks will typically perform verification steps before releasing funds, and may recommend secure financial products or temporary holds to protect savings until the situation is verified. Law enforcement may also provide guidance or intervention when scams are reported.
Dmitry Revyakin emphasized the importance of not complying with instructions that could lead to the loss of money, stating that this warning is an additional precaution against being deceived by scammers. By staying vigilant and informed, individuals can protect their savings from such scams.
- Despite increasing reports of scams involving banking personnel or law enforcement officers requesting immediate money transfers, banks and law enforcement agencies never ask individuals to move their money for safety purposes.
- As a preventative measure against financial scams, banks and law enforcement agencies not only implement strict verification procedures and technology, but also emphasize ongoing public education and collaboration across jurisdictions to detect and respond swiftly to suspicious activity.
