Police warn of phishing links after rise in scams via messengers and social media
Police in Międzyrzecz say scammers are increasingly contacting victims through messaging apps and social networks, often posing as relatives or friends. Some send SMS links that install malware giving criminals access to bank accounts.
Impersonation scams on messaging apps
According to the Międzyrzecz district police unit, which published the warning on 20 October 2026 (Uważaj na oszustów — nie klikaj w podejrzane linki – gov.pl), attempts to extract money through chat apps and social media have become more frequent. Fraudsters pose as acquaintances or family members and ask for an urgent loan or for an online banking code.
Fake courier and utility messages
The same notice says criminals are also using text messages that imitate parcel delivery firms and utility providers. These messages demand a small payment to avoid an unspecified consequence and direct the recipient to a link. Police say the link can carry malicious software that gives offenders access to the victim's bank accounts.
What the police advise
Authorities urge residents not to open links in unexpected messages, even when they appear to come from a known contact or an official company. Anyone asked for money by a relative or friend should verify the request by calling that person directly on a number already known to them. Suspicious messages should be reported to the police.
Why it matters
The warning shows that scammers are combining social engineering with malware, so a single tap on a link can expose bank accounts. Residents who receive unexpected payment requests should treat them as suspect until verified through a separate channel.
Sources
- #Phishing
- #Malware
- #Międzyrzecz
- #PoliceWarning
- #SocialEngineering
- #SMSScam
- #Impersonation