TRNC police warns against sharing personal information unknown individuals on social media

The Turkish Cypriot police issued a warning to the public not to share mobile phone number, ID, or credit card information with anyone through social media applications or text messages (SMS).

In a statement from the Police Press Office, it was noted that malicious individuals are creating various scenarios on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram or through text messages sent to mobile phones to obtain personal data, commit fraud, and deceitfully acquire money from individuals by offering products for sale.

The statement highlighted that recently, accounts created on Instagram with fraudulent intent have been offering clothing for sale, accepting orders, and collecting payment without delivering the items, thus defrauding buyers.

The statement included the following remarks:
"It has been identified that text messages are being sent to mobile phones with the message 'Update your postal information,' requesting identity, credit card, and/or bank account information with fraudulent intent.

To prevent members of the public from falling victim to such schemes, we strongly advise:

• Exercising caution when shopping online or via social media platforms.
• Avoiding placing orders from websites that have not proven their reliability.
• Not sharing credit card information or transferring money to bank account numbers provided without confirming the physical existence of the products being purchased.
• Refraining from sharing personal information (such as ID, credit card, or bank account details) requested through text messages sent to mobile phones."