The e-mail from your bank that was not from your bank.
Phishing and fake messages
Phishing is a message that imitates a bank, store or public body to lure the victim into handing over passwords, codes or card details on a fake site.
Timeline
Idea
Imitate someone you already trust
The scammer picks a known brand and copies its logo, colours and language to look official.
A message that looks exactly like your bank.
Plan
Build the fake site
They register an address close to the real one and create an identical login screen.
A link with one letter swapped in the domain.
Objective
Capture credentials
They want the password, the verification code and the card details — not the money on the first click.
A form asking for your full password.
Execution
Manufacture urgency
The message warns of a block, a suspicious purchase or a prize with a short deadline so you act without thinking.
A countdown or a threat of account closure.
Outcome
Use the access
With the password in hand, the scammer enters the account, transfers money or buys in your name.
Strange logins or purchases you never made.
Other cases
- See how the scam works
The call from the “bank” that asks you to transfer money yourself.
Fake instant payment and bank support
The fake instant payment scam is a call or message from a supposed bank employee who convinces the victim to transfer money or share codes to “cancel” a fraud.
- See how the scam works
The guaranteed return that only exists in a screenshot.
Fake investment
A fake investment is a platform or adviser promising high guaranteed returns in order to collect deposits; the profit appears on screen, but withdrawals are never released.