MTS Experts Warn of Sharp Rise in 'Talisman Scams' Targeting Elderly Women in Russia

In Russia, scammers are calling citizens under the guise of companies claiming to practice spiritual rituals, attempting to sell talismans and amulets they claim will solve personal and financial problems. MTS experts reported that such calls increased by 70% in May and the first half of June compared to the start of the year, with the primary target being women over 65.

Scraper SystemJune 21, 2026, 10:46 AM

MTS Experts Warn of Sharp Rise in 'Talisman Scams' Targeting Elderly Women in Russia

Experts from the Russian telecommunications company MTS have announced a significant increase across the country in a new type of fraud known as 'talisman scams.' Scammers are calling citizens using the names of companies that allegedly engage in spiritual practices, trying to sell amulets, pendants, and talismans they claim will resolve personal and financial difficulties.

Calls Increased by 70%

According to information provided by MTS experts, the number of such fraudulent calls increased by 70% in May and the first half of June compared to the beginning of the year. The fraud prevention service stated that this trend is concerning.

Women Over 65 Are the Primary Target

Experts emphasized that the scammers' main target demographic is women over the age of 65. Exploiting this age group's greater susceptibility to psychological pressure, scammers typically call between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM on Fridays, a time when elderly people are often home alone and their relatives are at work.

Which Cities Are Most Affected?

The regions where such fraudulent calls are most prevalent align with general fraud statistics. Scammers prefer large cities with populations of higher purchasing power. Moscow ranks first, accounting for 22% of all calls. Moscow is followed by Krasnodar and Saint Petersburg.

Warning from Experts

MTS experts warned citizens, stating, "It is important to understand that no amulet, pendant, or 'special' ritual can solve your problems. If you encounter such a call, it is best to end the conversation and hang up. If you believe you have been deceived, contact law enforcement immediately to resolve the issue."

Source: RIA Novosti

Have a story, event or announcement of your own?Send us your news on WhatsApp

Spotted an error in this story?Report it on WhatsApp

Share on all social platforms

Job Listings

Advertisements

MTS Experts Warn of Sharp Rise in 'Talisman Scams' Targeting Elderly Women in Russia

Stay Updated with RuskiGazeta

Job Listings

Russia Intensifies Military Conscription Pressure with Facial Recognition and Online Draft After the War

Air Defense Systems Activated in Tehran

Medvedev Claims Strait of Hormuz is a 'Persian Nuclear Weapon', Says 'Rules of War' No Longer Apply in Ukraine

Iranian Minister Calls for End to War on All Fronts Including Lebanon

Advertisements

MTS Experts Warn of Sharp Rise in 'Talisman Scams' Targeting Elderly Women in Russia

Stay Updated with RuskiGazeta

Calls Increased by 70%

Women Over 65 Are the Primary Target

Which Cities Are Most Affected?

Warning from Experts

Sponsored Ads

Featured Listings

Lawsuit Regarding Corruption Allegations in Companies Owned by Leyla Alaton Continues

Severe Rainfall and Storms Forecast for Four Regions in Russia

Knife Attack at Shopping Mall in Russia's Krasnodar Leaves One Woman Dead

Russia connection questioned in arson attacks on Starmer-linked properties

Russia Intensifies Military Conscription Pressure with Facial Recognition and Online Draft After the War

Air Defense Systems Activated in Tehran

Medvedev Claims Strait of Hormuz is a 'Persian Nuclear Weapon', Says 'Rules of War' No Longer Apply in Ukraine

Iranian Minister Calls for End to War on All Fronts Including Lebanon

Lawsuit Regarding Corruption Allegations in Companies Owned by Leyla Alaton Continues

Severe Rainfall and Storms Forecast for Four Regions in Russia

Knife Attack at Shopping Mall in Russia's Krasnodar Leaves One Woman Dead

Russia connection questioned in arson attacks on Starmer-linked properties