Guide Silayev reveals strategies to avoid deception by false communalists
In the realm of housing and utilities, scammers leverage both conventional fraud techniques and innovative digital schemes. We chatted with Yuri Silaev, head of the trustworthy AI lab at RТU MIRÉA, who dished out tips on how to dodge these sneaky scams.
Silaev pointed out that phony bills are a common scam. These bills feature inflated rates and services that don't exist. He advises that these invoices should be examined using utility company apps or the GIS JKH website and beware of suspicious QR codes.
The second popular scheme used by scammers is bogus visits in the disguise of utility company employees, capital repair fund reps, or regulatory bodies. In such instances, Silaev advises not to permit strangers into your dwelling without validating their identity first. Give your utility company a ring to verify their claim.
Phone phishing and mistaken charitable solicitations are also on the scammers' playlist.
"These swindlers call pretending to be from the housing or utility office, claiming 'debts', 'overpayments', or 'service suspensions', urging you to 'transfer funds immediately'. Don't provide sensitive info like bank card details to strangers, even if they claim to be employees," Silaev cautioned.**
Moreover, scammers can hack personal accounts. This can transpire if they obtain personal information, for example through leaks, and alter payment details. Residents are advised to frequently examine their payment history in their personal account and activate two-factor authentication in housing and utility services.
Experts have also warned about scammers peddling fake vacation vouchers.
Stay protected! Here's what you can do:
- Verify the legitimacy of contacts and documents: Always scrutinize the identity of anyone reaching out about housing or utilities. Use official channels to confirm authenticity.
- Be wary of unsolicited communications: Treat unsolicited calls, emails, texts or messages with suspicion, especially if they demand immediate financial details.
- Protect against phishing and phone scams: Implement security measures like spam filters, call-blocking tools, and identity verifications.
- Check your bills and statements for inconsistencies: Report any unusual charges to your provider.
- Steer clear of unexpected visits: Legitimate inspections are usually scheduled and confirmed.
- Stay informed and use technology: Subscribe to newsletters, resources, or AI-powered fraud detection tools for up-to-date scam intelligence.
By blending caution, verification, distrust of unsolicited contacts, and modern fraud detection tech, you can minimize the risk of being ensnared by scams in the housing and utilities sectors.
- In the business of housing and utilities, scammers don't limit themselves solely to conventional fraud methods; they also exploit modern technology, such as phishing and phone scams, to trick unsuspecting individuals.
- To stay safe from these tech-savvy scammers in the realm of housing and utilities, it's essential to use technology wisely, such as subscribing to newsletters, resources, or AI-powered fraud detection tools for up-to-date scam intelligence.
