Armenian Cyberpolice and Central Bank Warn Against New Wave of Online Scams

Law enforcement and financial authorities in Armenia have recorded a new wave of online scams targeting citizens.

Fake Job Offers

According to the Cyberpolice of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, scammers are using Telegram and WhatsApp to offer "easy work and high income" under the guise of the Alibaba brand. To start working or withdraw supposed earnings, victims are asked to transfer funds to specific bank accounts. After receiving the initial payment, the fraudsters demand even larger amounts before eventually disappearing.

"Fake Intermediaries" and Money Laundering

Simultaneously, the Central Bank of Armenia reports an increase in cases involving the concealment of illicit funds. Criminals use social media, job boards, and dating platforms to find individuals, unwittingly turning them into participants of illegal schemes. Promising quick income without requiring any work experience, scammers ask victims to receive money on their personal bank cards, withdraw the cash, or transfer the funds to other individuals.

According to the official statement from the Central Bank of Armenia, providing or allowing third parties to use personal bank accounts can turn individuals into "money mules" (fake intermediaries), which carries serious legal consequences.

How to Protect Yourself

Authorities strongly advise following these safety rules:

• Do not transfer money to unfamiliar accounts supposedly required for starting a job.
• Never enter your bank card's CVV/CVC details on suspicious websites.
• Do not accept offers to receive or transfer unknown funds through your personal bank accounts or e-wallets.
• Never share passwords, usernames, or one-time verification codes with third parties.