# Expanding SMS and phone fraud targeting European citizens > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/emergingmarket-credit-growth-and-microfinance-risks-mount-in-africa-and-india > Updated: 2026-09-04T13:59:46.000Z. Sources: 351. Developments: 106. Since the wave of SMS‑phishing in May 2026, fraudsters have continually expanded their use of trusted communication channels across Europe. In early July, Albanian and Kosovar businesses faced a coordinated cyber‑attack targeting a national star‑rating system and the MerrJep marketplace, while ProCredit Bank client data appeared for sale online. In late July and August, parking-related fraud intensified. In the Czech Republic, police warned of messages impersonating EasyPark; similarly, authorities in Pitești, Romania, flagged fraudulent texts mimicking the TPARK app. In Rome, officials warned of SMS messages claiming traffic infractions to steal banking data. In Lithuania, a new scheme involving SMS messages regarding unpaid fees and fake QR codes on parking meters emerged. In Germany, the ADAC warned of ‘smishing’ and ‘quishing’ tactics. Most recently, in Slovakia, the Nitra Municipal Police and the Slovak Banking Association warned of SMS scams claiming unpaid parking fees—often requesting small amounts like 1.70 euros to appear legitimate—sent from suspicious numbers, including those from Morocco. In late August, EasyPark reported increased fraud in Finland and Norway, where scammers use SMS, emails, and counterfeit physical QR codes on parking signs to claim outstanding payments. Impersonation of official services has also escalated. In Greece, the Hellenic Police warned of a surge in vishing and smishing, noting that scammers use automated recordings to impersonate police, shortened URLs to mimic the gov.gr portal, and artificial intelligence for voice cloning. In Bulgaria, authorities flagged ‘Police Summons Notice’ emails that use logos from the Ministry of Interior and Europol to threaten citizens with arrest. In Moldova, authorities flagged scams impersonating MPay and the Police. In Romania, the National Cybersecurity Directorate (DNSC) warned of phishing emails mimicking E. ON to steal credit card details via fraudulent websites. ## Claims - Fraudsters send SMS messages that appear to be from Roma Capitale claiming the recipient has an unpaid traffic fine. (corroborated by 4 sources) - The SMS includes a link to a counterfeit website that requests personal and banking data. (corroborated by 4 sources) - Citizens are advised not to click the links, not to provide personal or banking information, and to delete the messages immediately. (corroborated by 4 sources) - The ADAC has issued a warning regarding new fraud methods targeting drivers paying parking fees. (corroborated by 3 sources) - Fraudsters are covering original QR codes on parking meters with fake stickers to redirect users to phishing websites. (corroborated by 3 sources) - Roma Capitale states that official fine notices are never sent via SMS with external links. (corroborated by 2 sources) - The municipality has launched technical checks and protective procedures to safeguard residents. (corroborated by 2 sources) - Criminals are impersonating the parking app EasyPark through fraudulent SMS messages. (corroborated by 2 sources) - Fraudulent SMS messages claim there is an outstanding parking bill and threaten a 100 Euro fine if unpaid. (corroborated by 2 sources) - EasyPark stated that the company does not send SMS messages from unknown or private numbers. (corroborated by 2 sources) - The ADAC recommends that victims immediately inform their bank, block their cards, and report the incident to the police. (corroborated by 2 sources) ## Timeline ### 2026-09-04: Parking Servis warns citizens of SMS phishing scam Parking Servis has warned citizens against an SMS scam where fraudsters impersonate the company to demand payment for alleged outstanding parking fees via malicious links. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/parking-servis-warns-citizens-of-sms-phishing-scam ### 2026-09-01: EasyPark warns of rising phishing and QR code scams EasyPark is warning customers in Finland and Norway about a surge in phishing scams using SMS, email, and fake QR codes to solicit fraudulent parking payments. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/easypark-warns-of-rising-phishing-and-qr-code-scams ### 2026-08-28: Bulgarian police warn of phishing scam using fake summons Bulgarian police have warned of a phishing scam where criminals impersonate law enforcement via emails, using fake summons and threats of arrest to trick citizens into opening malicious links or files. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bulgarian-police-warn-of-phishing-scam-using-fake-summons ### 2026-08-26: Hellenic Police warn of rising vishing and smishing scams The Hellenic Police warn of rising vishing and smishing scams in Greece, where criminals impersonate authorities or relatives using AI to steal banking and personal data. 23 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hellenic-police-warn-of-new-telephone-scam-targeting-citizens ### 2026-08-26: Romania: Cybersecurity warnings issued for E. ON phishing scams The National Cybersecurity Directorate warns of E. ON phishing scams using fake invoices to steal card data, while Vrancea police urge citizens to practice online safety and verify all digital sources. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-cybersecurity-warnings-issued-for-e-on-phishing-scams ### 2026-08-26: Slovakia warns of fraudulent parking fee SMS scams Fraudulent SMS messages targeting drivers in Slovakia are using fake parking fee claims to steal financial data. Authorities urge citizens to ignore suspicious links and contact banks if compromised. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/slovakia-warns-of-fraudulent-parking-fee-sms-scams ### 2026-08-20: Parking fraud: ADAC warns of SMS and QR code scams The ADAC warns of new parking fraud schemes involving fake EasyPark SMS messages and tampered QR codes on parking meters used to steal credit card and personal data. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/parking-fraud-adac-warns-of-sms-and-qr-code-scams ### 2026-08-17: Moldova police warn of phishing scams impersonating official services Moldovan authorities have warned of phishing scams where fraudsters impersonate the Police and MPay via SMS to steal personal and banking data through fake traffic fine notifications. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldova-police-warn-of-phishing-scams-impersonating-official-services ### 2026-08-14: Lithuania warns of new parking-related fraud targeting drivers Drivers in Lithuania are being targeted by a scam involving fake parking fee SMS messages and fraudulent QR codes on parking meters designed to steal bank card details. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lithuania-warns-of-new-parking-related-fraud-targeting-drivers ### 2026-08-11: Hellenic Police warn of SMS phishing scam involving fake traffic fines The Hellenic Police warn of a sophisticated phishing scam using SMS messages about fake traffic fines and a deceptive 50% discount to steal banking data via fraudulent websites. 16 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hellenic-police-warn-of-new-traffic-fine-phishing-scam ### 2026-08-05: Romanian Intelligence Service warns of phone‑spoofing fraud SRI warns that fraudsters are spoofing its phone number to steal personal and banking data, urging citizens to hang up and call back using the official number. 12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romanian-intelligence-service-warns-of-phone-spoofing-fraud ### 2026-08-02: Romanian Police warn of SMS fraud sending fake traffic‑fine notices Romanian Police warn that scammers are sending fake SMS traffic‑fine notices, urging immediate payment and stealing personal data; authorities advise not to respond or click links and to verify any fine only on 15 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romanian-police-warn-of-fake-trafficfine-sms-scams-impersonating-authorities ### 2026-08-02: Czech parking app EasyPark targeted by SMS fraud Fake SMS messages impersonating EasyPark are scamming drivers in Hranice and the Olomoucký region, directing them to counterfeit sites that steal payment data; officials warn against clicking links and suggest 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/czech-parking-app-easypark-targeted-by-sms-fraud ### 2026-07-30: Rome and Pitești warn of SMS phishing scams impersonating municipal fines Rome and Pitești warn citizens about SMS scams posing as municipal fine notices, urging them not to click links or share data. 18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rome-municipality-warns-of-phishing-sms-scam-masquerading-as-traffic-fines ### 2026-07-28: Czech police warn of parking‑app and bank phone scams targeting citizens Czech police alert the public to EasyPark fake SMS and bank phone scams that caused financial losses, urging verification and avoidance of suspicious links. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/czech-police-warn-of-parkingapp-and-bank-phone-scams-targeting-citizens ### 2026-07-22: Bulgarian Police Warn of Fraudulent Road Police Messages Bulgarian police alert citizens to fake Road Police messages from foreign numbers (+63, +44) that claim unpaid fines and link to counterfeit portals seeking personal and banking data. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bulgarian-police-warn-of-fraudulent-road-police-messages ### 2026-07-21: Romania's DNSC warns of ongoing SMS fraud demanding false fines Romania's DNSC alerts citizens to ongoing SMS scams falsely claiming unpaid fines, urging caution, verification through official sites, and reporting of suspicious messages. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romanias-dnsc-warns-of-ongoing-sms-fraud-demanding-false-fines ### 2026-07-20: Czech Republic warns of deceptive push notifications and parking SMS scams Czech officials highlight the rise of intrusive marketing push notifications and a surge in fraudulent parking SMS scams, urging users to verify alerts via official channels. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/czech-republic-warns-of-deceptive-push-notifications-and-parking-sms-scams ### 2026-07-19: Romania reports rise in phone fraud and large counterfeit goods seizures In H1 2026, Romania saw 42% of cyber attacks involve phone scams and a 28% jump in counterfeit product seizures, with authorities confiscating over 200,000 items worth more than 3 million lei. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-reports-rise-in-phone-fraud-and-large-counterfeit-goods-seizures ### 2026-07-19: Denmark warns of sharp rise in smishing and online fraud targeting citizens Denmark reports a record rise in smishing with over 1,300 complaints in June, while a survey finds one‑third of Danes hit by data leaks; police and Sydbank urge people not to click links, use unique passwords, 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/denmark-warns-of-sharp-rise-in-smishing-and-online-fraud-targeting-citizens ### 2026-07-18: UK motorists warned of weekend gridlock and parking‑text fraud UK drivers face severe weekend congestion with 14 million trips and are cautioned against lane changes, while a surge in fake parking‑text scams urges motorists not to click suspicious links. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/uk-motorists-warned-of-weekend-gridlock-and-parkingtext-fraud ### 2026-07-17: Slovakia warns of surge in fraud targeting mayors and city officials Slovakia alerts mayors to fraud schemes where scammers impersonate bank staff, demand urgent transfers to fake accounts, and advise officials to stop communication and verify with banks. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/slovakia-warns-of-surge-in-fraud-targeting-mayors-and-city-officials ### 2026-07-17: France toll operators warn of fake SMS scam stealing drivers' bank data French scammers send fake SMS about unpaid free‑flow tolls, using real licence plates to steal banking data; operators say they never request payment via SMS and advise reporting to 33 700. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/france-toll-operators-warn-of-fake-sms-scam-stealing-drivers-bank-data ### 2026-07-14: Slovenian cyber agency warns of surge in smashing smishing scams targeting messaging apps SI‑CERT warns that smishing attacks impersonating contacts have defrauded 2,600 Slovenians, causing over €40 million in losses and urging users not to click links in private messages. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/slovenian-cyber-agency-warns-of-surge-in-smashing-smishing-scams-targeting-messaging-apps ### 2026-07-14: Hungarian National Bank warns of cyber scams targeting State Treasury accounts Hungarian National Bank warns scammers impersonating banks to steal State Treasury account access; advises hanging up and verifying calls. New law makes banks liable for losses without strong authentication, sl 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungary-warns-scammers-targeting-state-treasury-and-personal-bank-accounts ### 2026-07-14: Romania warns of fake traffic‑fine SMS scam stealing bank card data Romanian authorities warn that fake SMS claiming traffic fines from the Ministry of Transport direct drivers to a counterfeit ghiseul.ro site to steal bank card data; avoid links, verify via the official site, 13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-warns-of-sms-phishing-scams-impersonating-olx-autovit-and-transport-ministry ### 2026-07-14: Hungarian Police Warn of SMS Phishing Scam Targeting Drivers Hungarian police warned that a fake SMS claiming a traffic fine is a phishing trap that steals bank details; they urge citizens not to click links, delete the messages, and report any incidents. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungarian-police-warn-of-sms-phishing-scam-targeting-drivers ### 2026-07-13: WhatsApp accounts hit by malware campaign and SMS scams, experts urge two‑step verification Kaspersky flags a WhatsApp‑Web malware campaign spreading across several countries, while police warn of SMS‑code scams; users should enable two‑step verification to protect accounts. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-accounts-hit-by-malware-campaign-and-sms-scams-experts-urge-twostep-verification ### 2026-07-12: Chișinău mayor and Romanian police alert public to sophisticated fraud schemes Chișinău’s mayor and Romanian police warn of rising, sophisticated fraud scams – including child involvement and fake police calls – urging citizens to stay vigilant and protect personal data. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/chiinu-mayor-and-romanian-police-alert-public-to-sophisticated-fraud-schemes ### 2026-07-11: Slovakia warns of traffic‑police SMS scam and Betliar municipal fraud Slovak police warn of a nationwide SMS scam impersonating traffic police demanding quick fines, while Betliar’s mayor fell victim to a separate €117 k fraud, prompting police action and partial recovery. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/slovakia-warns-of-trafficpolice-sms-scam-and-betliar-municipal-fraud ### 2026-07-10: Albania, Kosovo and Regional Banks Face Rising Cyber Threats Albania’s business rating system was hit by a cyber attack, Kosovo sellers face phishing scams on MerrJep, and ProCredit Bank client data is being sold by hackers. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/merrjep-marketplace-sellers-in-kosovo-targeted-by-phishing-scammers ### 2026-07-10: JUDU warns of fake QR codes and SMS scams targeting Lithuanian drivers JUDU warns that fake QR codes on parking meters and bogus SMS messages are being used to defraud Lithuanian drivers; only official app, SMS number or m.Parking app are legitimate payment methods. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/judu-warns-of-fake-qr-codes-and-sms-scams-targeting-lithuanian-drivers ### 2026-07-10: Fake Frenchwoman fraud scheme dupes elderly woman in Haskovo, Bulgaria A 75‑year‑old woman in Dimitargrad, Haskovo was duped by an online impostor claiming to be a French philanthropist, sending thousands of levs and euros before police intervened. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fake-frenchwoman-fraud-scheme-dupes-elderly-woman-in-haskovo-bulgaria ### 2026-07-08: Moldova police report five phone scams causing about 1 million lei in losses Moldovan police reported five phone‑fraud cases totalling ~1 million lei, involving impersonation of officials and fake investment schemes; 140 attempts were blocked and citizens were urged to avoid sharing any 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldova-police-report-five-phone-scams-causing-about-1-million-lei-in-losses ### 2026-07-08: Energocom Warns Moldovan Citizens of Fraudulent Impersonation Attempts Energocom warned Moldovan citizens that fraudsters are posing as company representatives to obtain personal data during alleged gas‑meter checks. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/energocom-warns-moldovan-citizens-of-fraudulent-impersonation-attempts ### 2026-07-08: Romanian authorities warn of surge in financial scams targeting citizens Romanian officials warn of fake traffic‑fine SMS scams, crypto‑ATM fraud targeting seniors, Nova Post impersonation, and a US‑led takedown of a proxy botnet used to steal data. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romania-and-moldova-warn-citizens-of-new-phone-and-online-fraud-scams ### 2026-07-08: Impersonation scams pose new threat to Hungarian citizens' finances Fraudsters posing as Budapest cyber‑police are phoning Hungarians, claiming suspicious bank transfers and demanding financial details to steal money. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/impersonation-scams-pose-new-threat-to-hungarian-citizens-finances ### 2026-07-06: Vietnam warns merchants of fake payment speaker scam targeting IoT devices Vietnam warns merchants that fraudsters are faking payment‑speaker alerts on IoT devices, urging verification via banking apps and stronger device security. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vietnam-warns-merchants-of-fake-payment-speaker-scam-targeting-iot-devices ### 2026-07-06: Romania and Moldova see spate of criminal investigations and fraud cases in early July Romania issued protection orders, recovered stolen Italian art and busted sturgeon poaching, while Moldova reported 27 scams costing over €1 M; a Romanian convicted of credit fraud received an 11‑year sentence. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldova-police-log-27-fraud-cases-losses-exceed-1-million-lei ### 2026-07-06: Moldovan fraud call centre of 180 operators dismantled in multinational operation Moldovan police, aided by Romania, Ukraine, Europol and Eurojust, busted a 180‑operator phone‑banking fraud ring targeting EU customers, mainly Romanians, amid a surge in scams. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldova-dismantles-crossborder-bank-fraud-call-centre-targeting-romanian-customers ### 2026-07-05: Digital fraud scams target consumers in Peru and Spain Cyber‑crime complaints rose 26% in Peru early 2026 and a fake Netflix payment SMS scam resurfaces in Spain, highlighting sophisticated digital fraud tactics. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/digital-fraud-scams-target-consumers-in-peru-and-spain ### 2026-07-04: Vietnam police crackdown on illegal bank account trading and scams Vietnam police warn against illegal bank‑account leasing, fraud schemes and a new IoT speaker scam, citing cases such as a Cần Thơ man linked to >100 bn VND transactions, fines up to 200 m VND and up to seven y 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vietnam-police-warn-businesses-of-iot-speaker-payment-scam ### 2026-07-03: Slovak, Slovenian police warn of new phishing SMS and email scams Authorities in Slovakia, Slovenia and the tax office warned of a surge in phishing SMS and email scams that mimic messaging apps, government portals and tax authorities, urging people not to click links or give 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/slovakia-and-croatia-alert-public-to-sms-trafficfine-phishing-scams ### 2026-07-02: Mexico's PRI calls for stronger action against phone fraud and extortion Mexico's PRI Senate demands authorities intensify prevention and enforcement against rising phone fraud and extortion, citing thousands of incidents and new AI‑enabled scams. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/latin-america-sees-surge-in-techenabled-financial-scams ### 2026-07-02: Hungarian police warn of email phishing scams posing as traffic fines Budapest police warn that fraudulent e‑mails impersonating a traffic‑fine authority are stealing bank data; victims are urged to verify fines before clicking links. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungarian-police-warn-of-email-phishing-scams-posing-as-traffic-fines ### 2026-07-02: Moldovan Opposition Leader Renato Usatîi Accuses SIS Chief of Concealing Cross‑Border Phone Scam Moldovan opposition leader Renato Usatîi accuses SIS director Alexandru Musteață of covering a cross‑border phone‑fraud ring and urges President Maia Sandu to demand a victim report; Parliament also discussed 9 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldovan-opposition-leader-renato-usati-accuses-sis-chief-of-concealing-crossborder-phone-scam ### 2026-07-02: Denmark police record highest number of smishing fraud reports Danish police recorded 1,367 smishing complaints in June 2024, a record high, driven by fake SMSes impersonating companies; authorities warn citizens not to click links. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/denmark-police-record-highest-number-of-smishing-fraud-reports ### 2026-07-01: Mexico warns of new SMS and WhatsApp scams targeting electricity and tax refunds Mexico’s energy and tax agencies warn that SMS and WhatsApp messages promising to avoid power cuts or claim tax refunds are phishing scams; users should avoid clicking links and verify through official portals. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bank-and-tax-authorities-warn-of-smishing-scams-targeting-users-in-colombia-and-mexico ### 2026-07-01: Romanian fraudsters swindle seniors and a child out of thousands of lei Two Romanian fraud cases saw an 89‑year‑old lose 40,000 lei and a 12‑year‑old lose 23,000 lei to scammers posing as relatives and a clairvoyant, prompting police investigations. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romanian-fraudsters-swindle-seniors-and-a-child-out-of-thousands-of-lei ### 2026-07-01: Moldova moves to create national anti‑fraud centre and tighten telecom scam laws Moldova’s parliament approved a telecom‑scam law and a resolution to set up a National Anti‑Fraud Focal Point to coordinate digital fraud prevention and enforcement. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romanian-senate-defeats-psd-bid-to-weaken-safe-taxevasion-measures ### 2026-06-29: Moldelectrica and Romania's Interior Ministry warn citizens of new fraud schemes Moldelectrica and Romania's Interior Ministry warn of scams posing as officials or fake news sites to steal personal and banking data. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldelectrica-and-romanias-interior-ministry-warn-citizens-of-new-fraud-schemes ### 2026-06-28: Denmark sees surge in parking‑fine phishing scams targeting motorists Denmark faces a surge in phishing scams using fake parking‑fine SMS messages and phone‑call fraud, prompting warnings from authorities to avoid clicking suspicious links and protect personal data. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/denmark-sees-surge-in-parkingfine-phishing-scams-targeting-motorists ### 2026-06-28: Phone scams targeting consumers in Spain and Mexico Authorities in Spain and Mexico warn of phone scams – fake Movistar calls in Spain and bogus prize‑winning extortion calls in Morelos – urging people to hang up, protect data and report incidents. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/phone-scams-targeting-consumers-in-spain-and-mexico ### 2026-06-27: Vietnam banks alert public to new mobile and speaker payment fraud schemes Vietnam’s Co-opBank and Vietcombank warned customers of scams using fake tech support for payment speakers and SMS reward‑point messages, urging users not to click unknown links or share OTPs. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vietnam-banks-warn-of-new-phishing-scams-targeting-payment-speakers-and-sms-users ### 2026-06-26: Stalexport Autostrada Małopolska warns of fake speed‑ticket SMS scam on A4 Scammers impersonating Stalexport Autostrada Małopolska send fake speed‑ticket SMSes to A4 drivers, urging payment via phishing links; the operator warns not to click and advises reporting to CERT Polska. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/stalexport-autostrada-maopolska-warns-of-fake-speedticket-sms-scam-on-a4 ### 2026-06-25: Romanian police reveal phone‑scam tactics as Moldovan victims lose over 1 million lei Romanian police demonstrated a phone‑scam where a caller impersonated police chief Bogdan Ghebaur, while Moldovan authorities reported two recent scams that cost victims over 1 million lei, highlighting the sp​ 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/romanian-police-reveal-phonescam-tactics-as-moldovan-victims-lose-over-1-million-lei ### 2026-06-25: Mexican regulator warns of bank transfer mistakes and phone scams Condusef advises Mexicans to act quickly on mistaken transfers and warns against phone/SMS scams, urging direct contact with banks and reporting fraudulent numbers. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mexican-regulator-warns-of-bank-transfer-mistakes-and-phone-scams ### 2026-06-24: Man arrested for phone theft and WhatsApp fraud in Bantul, Indonesia A 27‑year‑old was arrested in Bantul for stealing a neighbour’s phone and using WhatsApp to cheat a contact out of Rp 20 million, then discarding the phone in a well. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/man-arrested-for-phone-theft-and-whatsapp-fraud-in-bantul-indonesia ### 2026-06-24: WhatsApp and Telegram hit by new malware campaigns New malware campaigns exploit compromised WhatsApp and Telegram accounts to deliver malicious scripts, targeting desktop and web clients, with Kaspersky and Flare reporting widespread infections. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-and-telegram-hit-by-new-malware-campaigns ### 2026-06-23: Ohio Residents Warned About Eight Common Text Message Scams The FTC warns Ohio residents about eight text‑message scams—including fake tolls, USPS alerts, bank fraud, jury‑duty notices, job offers, and government impersonation—advising never to click links or share data 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ohio-residents-warned-about-eight-common-text-message-scams ### 2026-06-22: Slovakia police warn of third wave SMS fraud demanding fake traffic fines Slovak police warn of a third SMS phishing wave posing as traffic police fines, urging citizens not to click links or pay, and to report any incidents. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/slovak-police-warn-of-third-wave-of-fake-trafficfine-sms-scams ### 2026-06-22: India's cyber agency warns of 'Boss Scam' targeting CEOs and senior executives India's Cyber Crime Coordination Centre warns that fraudsters posing as RBI officials use a zip‑file Trojan to hijack CEOs' devices and WhatsApp, prompting fake payment orders. Firms are urged to verify all fin 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/indias-cyber-agency-warns-of-boss-scam-targeting-ceos-and-senior-executives ### 2026-06-22: WhatsApp malware campaign distributes VBScript attachments to hijack PCs Kaspersky reports a global WhatsApp malware campaign using compromised accounts to send VBScript files disguised as business documents, installing remote‑access software; Malaysia sees most infections. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-malware-campaign-spreads-vbscript-via-compromised-accounts ### 2026-06-21: Vietcombank alerts customers to sophisticated SMS phishing scam Vietcombank warns customers that fraudulent SMS messages with spoofed links are stealing card data; the bank advises not to click links, never share security details, and to lock cards via its app or hotline. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vietcombank-alerts-customers-to-sophisticated-sms-phishing-scam ### 2026-06-21: Hungary alerts motorists to fake SMS traffic‑fine scam Hungary warned that scammers are sending fake traffic‑fine SMSes with phishing links, urging users not to click or reply and to report any incidents to their bank and police. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungary-alerts-motorists-to-fake-sms-trafficfine-scam ### 2026-06-19: Serbian Police Alert Public to New Facebook Phishing Scam on Messenger Serbian police warn that a phishing scam via Messenger pretends to be from Meta, sends PDF attachments claiming account shutdown, and steals login and payment data; citizens urged not to click links, to enable 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/serbian-police-alert-public-to-new-facebook-phishing-scam-on-messenger ### 2026-06-19: Serbian police warn of fake Messenger verification scams targeting Facebook users Serbian police warn that fake Messenger messages posing as Meta verification attempts use PDF links to steal login and payment data; users should avoid opening attachments, enable 2FA and report scams via “Saj­ 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/croatian-and-serbian-authorities-warn-of-surge-in-phishing-scams-targeting-citizens ### 2026-06-19: Nigeria's banking sector loses N134.48bn to fraud, CBN reports Nigeria's banks lost N134.48 bn to fraud from 2020‑2025, with a 2024 peak of N52.26 bn driven by a N30 bn internal case; losses fell in 2025 after tighter controls. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nigerias-banking-sector-loses-n13448bn-to-fraud-cbn-reports ### 2026-06-18: Cyber fraud nets 7.8 crore rupees from Naresh Gujral's company in India Scammers used a fake WhatsApp profile of former MP Naresh Gujral to trick a company finance officer into sending about 7.8 crore rupees; Delhi police have frozen part of the funds and are investigating. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cyber-fraud-nets-78-crore-rupees-from-naresh-gujrals-company-in-india ### 2026-06-18: Bank of Ireland warns of rise in impersonation scams as Nigeria reports surge in digital banking fraud Bank of Ireland warns of rising impersonation texts, while Nigeria’s banks report N162 bn in fraud losses, driven by phishing and SIM‑swap attacks; both urge stronger customer vigilance. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/banking-fraud-scams-surge-in-ireland-and-nigeria ### 2026-06-17: Moldova cracks down on fraud rings scamming car buyers and exam candidates Moldovan police and anti‑corruption officials have dismantled two fraud schemes – a fake car and farm‑equipment sale network that cost victims 5.8 million lei, and a Certiport exam bribery ring that involved up 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldova-cracks-down-on-fraud-rings-scamming-car-buyers-and-exam-candidates ### 2026-06-17: Renato Usatîi slams Moldova's new SIM card law amid phone‑scam concerns Moldovan MPs debated a law mandating ID for prepaid SIM activation to curb phone scams; Renato Usatîi condemned it as ineffective, noting existing cards stay anonymous and urging amendments. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/renato-usati-slams-moldovas-new-sim-card-law-amid-phonescam-concerns ### 2026-06-17: WhatsApp scams cost French users average €1,024 per victim Kaspersky and Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr report French WhatsApp users lose an average €1,024 per scam, with a 159% rise in incidents and many victims hit multiple times. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-scams-cost-french-users-average-1024-per-victim ### 2026-06-16: Spain and Mexico Issue Alerts on Premium‑Rate Spam Phone Calls Spanish police and a Mexican AI expert warn that answering or even rejecting unknown international calls can trigger premium‑rate fraud, urging users to block and avoid such numbers. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/spain-and-mexico-issue-alerts-on-premiumrate-spam-phone-calls ### 2026-06-16: Czech drivers targeted by smishing scams masquerading as traffic fine notices Scammers send fake SMS traffic‑fine notices to Czech drivers, using urgent language and bogus links to steal money; police warn they never use SMS for fines and have opened a 7726 hotline for reports. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/czech-drivers-targeted-by-smishing-scams-masquerading-as-traffic-fine-notices ### 2026-06-16: Moldova police report 157 million lei fraud losses and launch multiple crackdown actions Moldova police report 157 million lei scam losses, stop a €10k fraud, seize $250k in undeclared luxury goods, and investigate a 3.4 million lei metal‑tax evasion scheme. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldovan-fraud-ring-impersonates-officials-to-swindle-seniors ### 2026-06-16: Spain's WhatsApp scams cost victims average €577, Kaspersky reports Kaspersky reports Spanish victims lose €577 on average to fast WhatsApp scams, with AI‑cloned voices and urgent Bizum requests driving rapid losses, especially among millennials. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/spains-whatsapp-scams-cost-victims-average-577-kaspersky-reports ### 2026-06-15: Spain experiences surge in smishing scams as digital entrepreneurs fall victim Spain’s top cyber‑crime agency reports a surge in smishing scams, with over 25,000 cases in 2025, as digital entrepreneurs like a Salamanca shoe store owner narrowly avoid fraud. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/spain-experiences-surge-in-smishing-scams-as-digital-entrepreneurs-fall-victim ### 2026-06-15: Indian WhatsApp CEO‑Impersonation Scam Cost Companies Over €450,000 Indian fraudsters cloned CEOs’ WhatsApp accounts, siphoning over €450,000 from firms and banks, part of a global “Pig‑butchering” scam that has cost victims millions worldwide. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/indian-whatsapp-ceoimpersonation-scam-cost-companies-over-450000 ### 2026-06-13: Aventus Finance rolls out new fraud‑prevention tools for Moldovan borrowers Aventus Finance implements electronic ID verification, FaceID login and suspends SMS OTP to protect Moldovan borrowers from fraud, aligning with National Bank guidance. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aventus-finance-rolls-out-new-fraudprevention-tools-for-moldovan-borrowers ### 2026-06-11: Austria and Serbia Issue Alerts on Fake Traffic Authority Scam Messages Austria’s ASFINAG and Serbia’s interior ministry warned drivers of fraudulent emails and SMS messages that impersonate traffic authorities and demand payment, urging citizens not to click links or share data. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/austria-and-serbia-issue-alerts-on-fake-traffic-authority-scam-messages ### 2026-06-11: Serbian Police Warn of Traffic‑Police Phishing SMS Scams Serbian police say fraudsters are sending SMS/iMessage scams pretending to be traffic police, urging victims to pay fake fines via links; they warn to delete and report such messages. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/serbian-police-warn-of-trafficpolice-phishing-sms-scams ### 2026-06-10: Moldova blocks over 1 million fraud calls and records 1.5 million lei loss in June Moldova blocked over 1 million fraud calls in early 2026; in a single day, 13 scams caused a loss of more than 1.5 million lei across several cities, prompting police warnings. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldova-blocks-over-1-million-fraud-calls-and-records-15-million-lei-loss-in-june ### 2026-06-10: Czech and Slovak police issue alerts on suspect identification and SMS fraud Czech police seek help identifying a man linked to a property crime, while Slovak police warn against SMS scams impersonating traffic police. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/czech-and-slovak-police-issue-alerts-on-suspect-identification-and-sms-fraud ### 2026-06-10: Slovak police warn of fraudulent traffic‑fine SMS scams Slovak police warn that fraudsters are sending fake traffic‑fine SMS alerts, demanding payment via links within 48 hours; officials say fines are never sent by text and urge citizens not to click links or share 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/slovak-police-warn-of-fraudulent-trafficfine-sms-scams ### 2026-06-09: Moldova police arrest five over 260,000‑lei loan fraud Moldovan police detained five people, including three Ukrainians, for a loan‑scam that cost a Chișinău woman about 260,000 lei; authorities seized over 5 million lei and continue the probe. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/five-arrested-in-chiinu-loan-fraud-that-cost-woman-260000-lei ### 2026-06-08: Moldovan police report phone fraud scams causing over 3 million lei loss Moldovan police logged 22 phone‑fraud cases from 5‑7 June, totalling over 3 million lei in losses and stopping 465 attempts; a 77‑year‑old woman lost 923 000 lei after scammers pretended to be officials. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldovan-police-report-phone-fraud-scams-causing-over-3-million-lei-loss ### 2026-06-07: Moldova launches parliamentary probe as authorities warn of SMS fraud targeting citizens Moldova's AGE warns of SMS scams impersonating EVO, while Parliament forms a commission to investigate phone fraud that cost over 270 million lei in 2025. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldova-launches-parliamentary-probe-as-authorities-warn-of-sms-fraud-targeting-citizens ### 2026-06-06: Albania police warns of SMS fraud scheme as Kosovo flags rising cyber espionage threats Albania warns of an SMS phishing scam targeting traffic‑fine payments, while Kosovo highlights ongoing cyber‑espionage threats and the need for allied cooperation. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/albania-police-warns-of-sms-fraud-scheme-as-kosovo-flags-rising-cyber-espionage-threats ### 2026-06-06: WhatsApp and SMS scams cost victims an average $733 worldwide A study shows WhatsApp, SMS and social‑media scams now cost victims an average $733, often within minutes, with AI‑generated attacks on the rise. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-and-sms-scams-cost-victims-an-average-733-worldwide ### 2026-06-05: Mexican authorities warn of online child‑targeting scams and fake traffic‑fine SMS fraud Mexican police in Chihuahua and San Miguel de Allende warned of a “Green Rabbit” gaming scam targeting children and fake traffic‑fine SMS scams, urging families to stay vigilant and not share personal data. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mexican-authorities-warn-of-online-childtargeting-scams-and-fake-trafficfine-sms-fraud ### 2026-06-05: Moldovan police warn of phone scams targeting elderly women, losses exceed 1 million lei Moldovan police report a surge in phone‑scam frauds, with two elderly women losing over 1 million lei in loans and transfers, while 17 cases were recorded in 24 hours. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldovan-police-warn-of-phone-scams-targeting-elderly-women-losses-exceed-1-million-lei ### 2026-06-04: Phone-based financial scams proliferate across the Americas Mirror transfers in the Dominican Republic and silent‑call scams in the US use social engineering to steal money, prompting experts to urge verification and bank contact. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/phone-based-financial-scams-proliferate-across-the-americas ### 2026-06-03: Moldovan Parliament to Hold Public Hearings on Rising Phone and Online Fraud Moldova’s parliament will hold public hearings on 12 June to address a surge in phone and online fraud that has cost citizens millions of lei, with officials, banks and telecoms called to testify. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldovan-parliament-to-hold-public-hearings-on-rising-phone-and-online-fraud ### 2026-06-02: WhatsApp Scam Targets BRILink Agent in Banyuwangi, Indonesia A hacked WhatsApp account was used to swindle Rp 19 million from a BRILink kiosk in Banyuwangi, while experts warn of rising WhatsApp scams using fake APKs and screen‑share tricks across Indonesia. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-scam-targets-brilink-agent-in-banyuwangi-indonesia ### 2026-06-01: Mexico warns of SMS scams using fake traffic‑fine notices Mexican authorities in Mexicali and the State of Mexico warn that SMS scams posing as traffic‑fine notices are circulating, urging the public not to click links and to report the fraud. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mexico-warns-of-sms-scams-using-fake-trafficfine-notices ### 2026-05-27: VPBank warns of phishing scams targeting credit card reward points VPBank warned that fraudsters are sending fake SMS/email messages impersonating the bank to steal credit‑card reward points and cash‑back, urging customers not to click links or share OTPs and to contact the b​ 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vpbank-warns-of-phishing-scams-targeting-credit-card-reward-points ### 2026-05-26: Moldovan police detain foreign and local scammers in phone fraud netting over 4 million lei Moldovan police arrested four foreign nationals and three local youths suspected of phone‑scam fraud, stealing over 4 million lei and defrauding victims of more than 600 000 lei. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldovan-police-detain-foreign-and-local-scammers-in-phone-fraud-netting-over-4-million-lei ### 2026-05-26: WhatsApp zero-click hack lets attackers hijack iOS accounts, says Italian security team Italian security firm Forenser uncovered a zero‑click WhatsApp exploit on iOS that lets hackers hijack accounts, send fraudulent money requests, and stay hidden; users should update the app and enable 2FA. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-zero-click-hack-lets-attackers-hijack-ios-accounts-says-italian-security-team ### 2026-05-25: Costa Rica Tackles Rising SMS Smishing Scams with Bank‑Issued Virtual Cards Costa Rica faces a wave of SMS‑based smishing scams; banks respond by offering free virtual cards that limit online fraud exposure. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/costa-rica-tackles-rising-sms-smishing-scams-with-bankissued-virtual-cards --- Cite as: Expanding SMS and phone fraud targeting European citizens. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/emergingmarket-credit-growth-and-microfinance-risks-mount-in-africa-and-india