A new scam method has emerged in Russia. Pyotr Shcherbachenko, a lecturer at the Financial University, explained that scammers are sending fake emails and messages to drivers in the name of the State Traffic Inspectorate (GIBDD), claiming they need to pay traffic fines.
Fake PDFs and payment links
Shcherbachenko stated that the messages contain texts such as 'You have violated traffic rules, review the decision and pay the fine.' He said the attached PDF files appear to be official documents, but clicking the 'pay now' button inside redirects users to a fake website mimicking government or banking resources.
The expert noted that these PDF files may also contain the victim's personal information, such as their vehicle license plate. He warned that once the link is clicked and card details are entered, this information falls into the hands of the scammers.
Use official channels
Pyotr Shcherbachenko advised against clicking links from suspicious emails and downloading files from unknown senders. He stressed that reliable sources, such as the 'Gosuslugi' (State Services) portal and the State Traffic Inspectorate's official website, should be used to check for traffic fines.
These warnings came after Russian President Vladimir Putin, at an expanded Interior Ministry (MVD) meeting, emphasized the need to focus on combating cybercrime and compensating victims for their losses.