Digitalization and cybersecurity risks in Romania

The Romanian economy is experiencing a significant shift toward digital integration across both financial services and retail. In the personal loan market, banking has transitioned from traditional branch-based interactions to rapid online processes through mobile-accessible financial ecosystems. Consumers now prioritize the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and utilize digital banking applications to secure funding for various expenses.

Parallel to these financial shifts, the e-commerce market is expanding, with an estimated value of 13.5 billion euros in 2026. This growth is being supported by an increased focus on digital accessibility for online retailers and the adoption of modern POS terminals. These payment solutions allow businesses to meet consumer demand for contactless and mobile payments while offering integrated services such as utility bill payments and electronic money transfers.

As digital commerce grows, authorities have identified rising cybersecurity risks, particularly during high-traffic periods like Black Friday. The National Cybersecurity Directorate (DNSC), the Romanian Police, and the Romanian Banking Association (ARB) have issued joint warnings regarding increased fraud. Common tactics include the use of fake online stores, phishing messages, and the impersonation of courier services to steal personal and banking data.

Scammers frequently utilize social media advertisements to promote unrealistic discounts or send fraudulent SMS and email notifications regarding blocked packages. Furthermore, the company Join Up! Romania reported that unauthorized parties are using its brand identity to distribute fake invoices and booking confirmations via WhatsApp and phone calls. Authorities advise consumers to manually enter website addresses and avoid sharing PINs, passwords, or authorization codes.