Police Warns of Fraud by Alleged Online Retailers

In recent weeks, the state criminal police office in St. Pölten has noticed "an increasing number" of cases of fraud by alleged online retailers. Victims are urgently advised to report immediately and to notify both their bank and the relevant payment service provider, according to the urgent advice.

Fraud by Alleged Online Retailers: Significant Financial Damage for Victims

According to the state police directorate, the perpetrators make contact by phone and claim that customer accounts have been hacked and money withdrawals would soon take place. Under the pretext of wanting to take protective measures, the victims are enticed to allow remote access to their smartphone or computer. This requires the installation of so-called remote desktop programs. Once the perpetrators have access to the device, they demand an identification document and a webcam recording for "verification". They then use this data to create a crypto account verified in the victim's name, the police explain. "In the final step, large amounts of money are converted and transferred into cryptocurrencies via this account. As soon as the transaction is completed, the perpetrators break off contact and the victims suffer significant financial damage." Due to the granted remote access, both the identity and the IP address of the perpetrator usually remain hidden, making direct tracking difficult.

(APA/Red)

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