Scammers have developed a new scheme to deceive Russian users. They are offering joint movie viewing sessions on a special online platform.
The scheme involves fraudsters inviting potential victims to spend an evening together watching a film on a seemingly legitimate online platform. They send a link for this purpose, clicking on which requires paying for a subscription.
These scammers create fake accounts (often posing as women looking for acquaintances) on social networks, dating websites, or in specialized Telegram bots. After establishing contact, they suggest moving the conversation to Telegram and then propose the joint movie session before a possible personal meeting.
The further execution of the scam depends on the victim`s device operating system. If the user is on iOS, the provided link leads to a phishing website that mimics a movie platform. On this fake site, the user is prompted to enter their bank card details to `pay` for the subscription.
For victims using Android devices, the link redirects them to a counterfeit app store that looks like Google Play. There, the user is prompted to download and install a malicious application. This app then also requests bank card details under the guise of paying for a subscription.
It is important to be vigilant about unsolicited offers for online activities, especially those requiring payment or installation of apps from unknown sources. Always verify the legitimacy of platforms and be cautious about sharing personal and financial information online.
It is noted that scammers also employ other fraudulent methods, such as sending malicious files to families of servicemen while pretending to be Red Cross representatives offering an application to find prisoners of war.
Another widespread scheme involves calls disguised as utility service employees (like water utility) who insist on a specialist visit to check meters or perform work and then ask for confirmation codes received via SMS.
Clement Ashworth 
Barnaby Whitfield