Cybercrime Southeast Europe Newsletter No. 57

New Trends in Scams in the Balkans: How Internet Scams are Adapting to New Technologies 

Internet scams in the Balkans have become more sophisticated and increasingly dangerous as technology advances. Today, scammers are using advanced technological tools such as AI chatbots, deepfake technology, and automated systems to deceive users and steal their money or personal data. These new scam trends come with serious risks, but they also offer opportunities for victims to protect themselves if they recognize the techniques scammers use. 

AI Chatbots: Scammers with a “Friendly” Voice 

One of the latest technologies scammers are using in the Balkans is AI chatbots. These bots are designed to imitate human conversation and allow scammers to pose as friendly advisors or customer service representatives. Chatbots often “enter” private conversations through social media, emails, or even SMS messages, promising rewards, discounts, or even “won money” in exchange for certain information or a payment. 

Thanks to advanced algorithms, chatbots can mimic human reactions and adapt to the user’s communication style, making them almost unrecognizable. They often employ the strategy of manipulating trust, presenting themselves as someone the victim already has experience with or as a friend who wants to help. This type of scam is often used in fake prize games or offers, where the goal is for scammers to obtain the victim’s personal information. 

Deepfake Technology: Fake Faces and Voices 

Deepfake technology, which uses artificial intelligence to create fake video and audio recordings, is increasingly being used in scams. Scammers can use this technology to make fake video calls or audio messages that allow them to impersonate celebrities or even people the victims know, such as family members or business partners. 

For example, in a recent scam in the Balkans, scammers used deepfake technology to create video calls in which they impersonated CEOs or business partners, demanding urgent payments or money transfers. This technology can be incredibly convincing, as the victim believes they are talking to a real person they know, which increases the chances of the scam succeeding. 

Automated Systems: Faster, More Efficient, and More Dangerous 

Automated systems, such as bots for mass phishing email sending or fake offers, are also becoming more common. These systems allow scammers to quickly and efficiently reach a large number of people without needing direct interaction with the victims. They are often used to send fake messages that appear to be official notifications from banks, government agencies, or popular brands, asking users to click on a link and enter their personal data. 

Scammers use this technology to create a sense of urgency, claiming that users must quickly update their information or make a payment to avoid having their accounts locked. Automated systems can send hundreds or even thousands of these messages each day, making it very challenging to recognize and protect against these types of scams. 

Real-Life Examples: Arrests and Legal Proceedings 

In the Balkans, lawmakers and law enforcement agencies are beginning to recognize these new technologies and their impact on citizens. Recently, there have been cases of scammers being arrested for using AI chatbots and deepfake technology to manipulate victims. For example, in Serbia, a gang of scammers was recently arrested for using deepfake technology to impersonate the voices of business partners and extort large sums of money from deceived entrepreneurs. 

These technological scams have become a serious challenge for regulators and the police. Legislators are now working to strengthen cybercrime laws, while consumer protection agencies have introduced new guidelines to help citizens recognize these sophisticated forms of fraud. 

How to Protect Yourself? 

1. Be aware of new technologies: Regularly inform yourself about new technologies and scams to help recognize potential threats. Never click on links from unknown sources or respond to suspicious emails or messages. 

1. Verify identities: If you have any doubts about video calls or messages you’ve received, verify the identity of the person you are communicating with. Never send money or personal information without first checking. 

1. Use security tools: Install security programs on your devices that can detect and block phishing attempts and malicious software. 

1. Consult experts: If you suspect you have fallen victim to a scam, consult cybersecurity experts or report the case to the police. 

Conclusion 

Technological advances allow scammers to be more creative and efficient in deceiving victims. However, understanding how these technologies work and how they are used in scams can help you protect yourself. Stay informed, be cautious, and always verify before you act. 

Kind Regards, 

Zoran Miljakovic 

Attorney at Law