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Tag: fraud

  • Online scam — Paphos Pensioner Loses €64,000 in Online Scam

    Online scam — Paphos Pensioner Loses €64,000 in Online Scam

    A 78-year-old man in Paphos has become a victim of an online scam, losing over €64,000. The incident, reported to police on Wednesday, highlights the dangers of engaging with unknown individuals on social media.

    Online scam: How the Scam Unfolded

    The victim received a friend request in August from an unknown person on a social media platform, which he accepted. This seemingly innocent act led to a series of communications that would ultimately cost him a significant amount of money.

    Manipulative Communication

    During their conversation, the scammer employed various tactics to persuade the pensioner to transfer money. The details of these communications remain unclear, but they were convincing enough to lead the man to comply with the requests.

    Financial Losses and Transfers

    By September, the situation escalated as the victim transferred more than €64,000 through bank transactions. This money was sent to 16 different accounts located in several countries, demonstrating the complexity and reach of the scam.

    Police Warning

    In light of this fraudulent case, the police have reiterated their warnings about the risks associated with online interactions. They urge individuals to be cautious and to refrain from sending money or sharing personal information with unverified contacts. The advice serves as a critical reminder during a time when online scams are increasingly prevalent.

  • Corruption allegations — Marinos Sizopoulos Responds to Corruption Allegations: ‘I Discovered the Forgery Myself’

    Corruption allegations — Marinos Sizopoulos Responds to Corruption Allegations: ‘I Discovered the Forgery Myself’

    corruption allegations — Marinos Sizopoulos, the MP and former EDEK president, is fighting back against corruption allegations detailed in a report from the Independent Authority Against Corruption. He plans to address the claims involving himself and other shareholders of Taxan Properties, asserting his innocence and his role in uncovering the alleged wrongdoing.

    Sizopoulos informed Philenews of his upcoming trip abroad, after which he will hold a press conference to discuss the allegations in detail. “I will present all the evidence,” he stated, emphasising the importance of studying the report thoroughly before making further comments.

    Corruption allegations: Denial and Dispute Over Allegations

    In a series of statements to various media outlets, Sizopoulos has categorically denied any involvement in the alleged fraudulent activities. He claims to have been the one who discovered the signature forgery that has sparked the investigation, insisting that he reported the matter to the police.

    Legal Challenges Ahead

    When questioned about the possibility of the case progressing to court, Sizopoulos appeared unfazed, asserting, “no problem,” and reiterated that he possesses all necessary evidence. He also indicated his intention to challenge the authority’s jurisdiction regarding both the investigation and the publication of the report.

    Details of the Allegations

    The findings from the Independent Authority Against Corruption suggest that there may be serious criminal offences at play, including fraud, forgery, and conspiracy to defraud. This investigation is tied to a loan settlement deal involving a significant debt write-off of €956,900, with allegations that a signature belonging to an Iraqi investor was forged in the process.

    Sizopoulos’s statements reflect a strong commitment to clear his name and challenge the findings of the authority. As he prepares for his press conference, the political landscape in Cyprus watches closely, anticipating his next moves in this unfolding situation.

  • Larnaca scam: Elderly Woman in Larnaca Falls Victim to Scam by Impostors Posing as Officials

    Larnaca scam: Elderly Woman in Larnaca Falls Victim to Scam by Impostors Posing as Officials

    larnaca scam — An elderly woman in Larnaca fell victim to a phone scam on Wednesday, losing valuable gold jewellery and personal items to fraudsters impersonating government and utility officials.

    • larnaca scam — An elderly woman in Larnaca fell victim to a phone scam on Wednesday, losing valuable gold jewellery and personal items to fraudsters impersonating government and utility officials.

    The incident occurred around 12:30 PM when the woman received a call from an unknown female who claimed that the government was offering free domestic assistants for elderly individuals. The caller, who used a persuasive tone, requested personal information to help with an application form.

    After the initial conversation, the woman was transferred to a male accomplice claiming to be a representative of the Electricity Authority of Cyprus. He alarmingly informed her that her house had a leak that could potentially lead to a fire.

    Under the guise of urgency, the imposter instructed the woman to gather her money and gold items for safety. While still on the phone, she followed the instructions and placed her jewellery and other valuables into a basket on her balcony. The scammer then told her to go back inside and turn off the main electrical circuit.

    Upon returning to the balcony, the woman discovered that her basket filled with jewellery had been stolen. Witnesses reported seeing an unknown male fleeing the vicinity on foot, although his direction remains unclear.

    Kofinou Police Station is actively investigating the incident, with authorities urging the community to remain vigilant against such scams. Police have reminded residents to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a government official or utility representative before sharing any personal information or valuables.