Police investigate major online scam
Police are investigating a new email fraud case in Limassol involving the theft of more than €65,000 through a sophisticated online scam.
The incident was reported on Monday to the Limassol CID by a representative of a company based in the city.
Fake emails led to large transfer
According to the complaint, on 2 March the company received an email appearing to come from a partner firm, requesting payment of invoices totalling €65,709.
A follow-up email instructed that the payment be made to a new bank account, the details of which were included in the message. Believing the request to be legitimate, the company transferred the full amount on 5 March.
Fraud uncovered weeks later
On 19 March, the company received another email requesting payment of an additional invoice. This raised suspicions, prompting further checks.
It was then discovered that fraudsters had gained access to the email communication between the two companies. Investigations showed that both the message requesting the new bank details and the earlier instructions were sent by the perpetrators. The transferred €65,709 had been deposited into a bank account controlled by the suspects.
Authorities issue warning to businesses
The Economic Crime Investigation Unit of the Limassol CID is handling the email fraud case in Limassol.
Following the incident, police urged businesses and individuals to verify payment requests received via email, especially when changes to bank details are involved.
Company owners and managers are also advised to inform their staff about this type of fraud and implement verification procedures before proceeding with financial transactions.
Also read: Phedonos to appear before court on 28 May, signs €100,000 bail
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