Russians are increasingly being targeted by fraudsters who use rented messenger accounts for illicit activities, prompting warnings from the Ministry of Internal Affairs. These schemes often involve offers of easy money for renting out phone numbers or social media accounts, a seemingly harmless proposition that can lead to severe consequences.

Experts caution that individuals who rent out their accounts become both victims and potential accomplices in criminal activities. The seemingly small payment received is disproportionate to the potential damage to victims and the legal risks faced by the account holder.

Fraudsters find it more advantageous to rent existing accounts due to their established history and contacts, making it easier to deceive and bypass security checks. These accounts are used for various scams, including phishing, launching malicious programs, and creating fraudulent networks for pyramid schemes and fake investments.

A phone number serves as a key to digital life, including banking applications, social networks, and government services. Loss of access can lead to blocked accounts and difficulties in restoration. Transferring access for money is considered complicity in fraud, making it difficult to prove ignorance in court.

Account holders may also face civil liability, with victims potentially demanding compensation for damages. Online services typically block or delete accounts found to be in violation of their rules.

Experts advise against engaging in dubious part-time jobs offered on social media and messengers. Any offer to transfer account access for money should be considered fraudulent.

It is crucial to educate loved ones, especially children and the elderly, about the dangers of such schemes. They should be warned against trusting strangers, clicking suspicious links, or disclosing personal information.

If an account is hacked, it is recommended to document the incident by contacting technical support or law enforcement. This documentation can help demonstrate the unauthorized use of the account, should the need arise.