Investment fraud has emerged as the most widespread deceptive scheme, according to recent data from the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), cited by RIA Novosti.
Perpetrators typically initiate contact with potential victims through online messengers and specialized interest groups. They skillfully cultivate trust with individuals before enticing them to engage in fraudulent investment opportunities, often presenting themselves as financial advisors or traders.
«To enhance the illusion of legitimacy, fraudsters may even permit victims to withdraw a small amount of money initially. However, the Ministry explicitly warned that this is merely a strategic deception,» the statement highlighted.
This prevalent issue was underscored by a recent incident in Yekaterinburg, where a vigilant real estate agent successfully prevented an elderly woman from losing her home to scammers. The 68-year-old local resident had fallen victim to fraudsters who convinced her to sell her apartment under the false pretense of investing the proceeds into «Gazprom» shares. Andrey Kiselev, director of the Hithouse real estate agency, identified suspicious activity during the transaction and intervened, safeguarding the pensioner`s assets.
