Police in Nicosia are investigating a new case of online fraud, following a complaint by a 32-year-old woman who was defrauded in connection with an online accommodation reservation, resulting in a loss of more than €2,200.
The case was reported yesterday to the Nicosia Criminal Investigation Department by the 32-year-old, who stated that on August 4, she made an accommodation reservation through an online booking platform. On the same day, an unknown individual contacted her, introducing himself as the property’s owner. Under the pretext that he could secure her a lower rate for her stay, he persuaded her to cancel her original reservation and make a new one through another online travel platform, sending her a link to do so.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
The complainant followed the link and, on August 11, transferred more than €2,200 to a bank account she was instructed to use, without, however, receiving any confirmation of the reservation. She then realized that it was a scam.
The case is being investigated by the Financial Crime Investigation Unit of the Nicosia CID.
In light of this ongoing investigation, the Police remind the public to be particularly cautious when making online reservations and not to respond to suspicious messages or payment requests.
If you receive a message regarding an accommodation reservation:
Contact the hotel or accommodation provider directly using their official contact information.
Do not make payments via links sent in messages or emails without first verifying their authenticity.
If you click on the link and enter your credit card information, we recommend that you contact your bank immediately and have the card canceled.
