A pensioner in Surgut lost her apartment and savings totaling approximately 5.5 million rubles after falling victim to an elaborate scam involving individuals posing as government and law enforcement officials. Natalya Petrovna Malchikhina, a 73-year-old Labor Veteran, was convinced to transfer her assets to a “safe account” to supposedly protect her from suspicions of collaborating with a terrorist organization.

The scam began with a phone call from someone claiming to be from “Gosuslugi,” who informed Malchikhina about a suspicious power of attorney issued in her name. This initial contact was followed by others posing as employees of “Rosfinmonitoring” and an “FSB Captain,” who used video calls and official-looking credentials to gain her trust.

The scammers told Malchikhina that she was suspected of aiding terrorists due to the power of attorney and that her funds and property needed to be temporarily transferred to the state treasury to clear her name. They maintained constant contact with her, providing reassurance and step-by-step instructions, including sending taxis to take her to ATMs and banks.

Under their direction, Malchikhina withdrew her savings and eventually sold her three-room apartment for 4.9 million rubles. Despite warnings from real estate agents and bank employees who suspected foul play, Malchikhina insisted she was acting of her own free will, convinced that she was helping with an important investigation.

The realization that she had been scammed only came after the fraudsters ceased communication. Malchikhina has reported the incident to the police, and a criminal case has been opened. She is now seeking assistance from city and district authorities, as she is left without her home and savings and is unsure where she will live next.