Greece: Authorities warn of rising telephone and AI-driven scams

Greek authorities and the Cybercrime Division are warning citizens about various sophisticated telephone fraud (vishing) tactics currently in use.

One prevalent method involves automated English-language messages from unknown numbers. Scammers impersonate the Hellenic Police, claiming the recipient's personal data is linked to illegal activities to create panic. These callers instruct victims to press '1' to be connected to an official, a practice the police state they never use.

Another emerging tactic utilizes artificial intelligence to impersonate public figures. In one instance, a resident was targeted by scammers claiming to be associates of Paul De Grasse, promising a 26,000 euro grant. The scammers used AI-generated video calls to mimic the individual's appearance. Similar incidents have involved the impersonation of celebrities like Cristiano Ronaldo to defraud citizens.