Ukraine is enduring a war, and while most citizens are focused on resisting Russia’s full-scale invasion, fraudsters are seizing the opportunity to exploit the situation. As the country navigates these challenging times, criminals have ramped up their efforts, devising and implementing increasingly sophisticated fraudulent schemes with each passing day. In this article, we will shed light on some of these schemes—ones that remain largely unknown to the average Ukrainian but are well-recognized by special services, which, according to many journalists, often serve as a “solid roof” for these criminals, especially since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion.

Fraudulent call centers, once associated with calls from “bank representatives” or “security services,” have adapted to wartime conditions. While it’s often claimed that these operations function solely on Russian territory and target only Russians, this is far from the truth. Most Ukrainians have encountered calls from scammers at least once in their lives, and since February 24, 2022, the frequency of such calls has surged. Moreover, criminals have rolled out new schemes designed not only to drain their victims’ finances but also, in some cases, to leave them with massive debts.

One of the latest scams leverages social media platforms. Fraudsters working in call centers create fake profiles posing as women or girls. They then scour social networks for men who display signs of wealth in their photos—expensive cars, apartments, or a luxurious lifestyle. The scammers add these individuals as friends and proceed cautiously: they casually ask how the men are doing or what they’re up to, keeping the interactions subtle and unhurried to avoid raising suspicion.

Over time, the fraudsters assess their target’s financial situation. Once they confirm the man has money, they steer the conversation toward the war. They ask how he feels about Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. If the man, for whatever reason, expresses discontent with the situation—criticizing mobilization, corruption, or even voicing approval of Russia’s actions—the scammers record everything. Then the blackmail begins: they threaten to report the information to the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), claiming the man could be arrested, imprisoned, and have all his property confiscated by the state. However, they offer to “keep quiet” in exchange for a monetary reward.

Men who previously shared their frustrations openly often agree to pay, fearing the consequences. But the scheme doesn’t end there: the scammers continue extorting money as long as the victim has anything left to give. In some cases, they even push their targets to sell off assets to “buy their silence.”

The second scheme also starts with fake social media accounts but takes a different turn. After confirming the target’s financial capacity, the scammers ask, “How do you feel about our boys?” When the man asks for clarification, they spin a heartfelt tale about soldiers on the front lines who are allegedly freezing and starving, in desperate need of warm clothing and food. Next, they claim to be collecting aid for these “boys on the front.”

Eager to help, men often offer to buy the necessary items and send them by mail. However, the scammers dissuade them: “If you buy and send it yourself, you’ll spend more money than needed. We can get everything at a discount because we buy in bulk. Just send the money to my card, and our person will deliver it to the front.” To seal the deal, they use emotional phrases like “for the sake of victory” or “we’re not on the front lines, but they’re protecting us there.” Sadly, many people believe these pleas and transfer funds that end up in the scammers’ pockets.

These schemes are not improvised—they’re the result of meticulous training. Every month, so-called “teachers”—specially trained individuals known in the trade as “specialists in scamming suckers”—visit fraudulent call centers. They conduct workshops, teaching employees psychological tactics and deception techniques. During these sessions, the “teachers” identify the most talented trainees and publicly request the “office supervisor” to reward them with a salary increase. This is done deliberately to motivate other workers to study harder and excel at their fraudulent tasks.

In addition to call centers, so-called “black realtors” have become more active since the full-scale invasion began. These criminals understand that many Ukrainians have fled abroad, leaving their properties unattended. Using fraudulent methods, they seize apartments and houses by deceiving owners or forging documents. More details about their schemes can be found :

FRAUD DURING WARTIME: EXPOSING THE SCHEMES OF THE GRIMENKOV FAMILY

The success of these schemes stems from several factors. First, the war has created an atmosphere of chaos and emotional vulnerability, making manipulation easier. Second, many Ukrainians are eager to support the army or avoid legal troubles, making them prime targets. Third, special services, which should be combating these crimes, often turn a blind eye, further enabling the spread of fraud.

To avoid falling victim to scammers, follow these simple rules:
1. Don’t trust strangers on social media. Verify the accounts you interact with and steer clear of suspicious individuals.
2. Keep personal information private. Financial details or opinions about the war could be used against you.
3. Verify charity drives. If you want to help the army, donate through reputable, well-established organizations.
4. Contact law enforcement. If you’re being blackmailed, don’t pay—report it to the police or SBU immediately.

Fraudsters don’t stop, even during wartime. Their goal is to deceive as many people as possible while the country is locked in a struggle for survival. Each month, they devise new schemes, adapting to the circumstances, and stop at nothing to profit from their compatriots’ misfortune. We will continue to keep our readers informed about emerging fraud tactics so you can protect yourself and your loved ones. Stay vigilant—in wartime, it’s not just advice, but a necessity.

We also invite you to watch a video report showcasing how fraudulent call centers operate, who they deceive, and how they strip people of their last savings, heedless of the ongoing war.