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A 53-year-old man in Nicosia lost more than €65,000 after scammers persuaded him to install an application that gave them access to his computer, mobile phone and online banking.
It is the latest reminder that online fraud in Cyprus no longer begins only with an obviously suspicious email. Sometimes it starts with a convincing phone call, fluent Greek and a caller who appears to know something about your previous investments.
The man told Nicosia CID that he received a call Aug. 26 from an unknown person who offered to help him withdraw profits supposedly earned through earlier cryptocurrency investments.
The caller then transferred him to a second person, introduced as a supervisor. That person instructed the 53-year-old to install a specific application on both his computer and phone.
Once he followed the instructions, the suspects gained access to his online bank account and allegedly carried out several transactions totaling €65,415.
The case is being investigated by the Nicosia CID’s Economic Crime Investigation Unit.
A familiar trick with a costly ending
The promise of forgotten cryptocurrency profits is becoming a familiar hook. Victims are told that money is waiting for them, but that they must install software or follow a few “security steps” before it can be released.
In reality, the application often allows the caller to see or control the victim’s device remotely. From there, passwords, banking details and security codes can be exposed.
For the average person, the most worrying part is how normal the call can sound. The caller may be polite, speak Greek and appear patient and professional. But no legitimate bank, investment adviser or cryptocurrency company needs remote access to a customer’s phone or computer to release money.
Police are urging the public never to give strangers access to electronic devices or online accounts and never to disclose bank details, passwords or verification codes.
Anyone considering an online investment should deal only with licensed companies and approved financial advisers. If a caller claims money is waiting for you, hang up and contact the company or bank yourself using a verified number—not one supplied by the caller.
If access has already been granted, disconnect the device from the internet, call the bank immediately and report the incident to police. With €65,000 disappearing through a screen, waiting even a few minutes can be expensive.
