With the festive season approaching, cybercrime activity is expected to increase significantly, experts warned during a roundtable discussion organized by the Hungarian National Police Headquarters (ORFK) in Budapest. Representatives from the Hungarian Banking Association, OTP Bank, and the Ministry of Justice’s Victim Support Centre participated in the event, highlighting the urgent need for vigilance against online fraud.
Ágnes Sütő, co-founder of the KiberPajzs initiative and Deputy Secretary General of the Hungarian Banking Association, emphasized that the project, launched two years ago with ten participants, aims to raise awareness about cyber risks. ‘Experience shows that the weakest link in online transactions and purchases is always the user: we are the ones who open the door and let the criminals in,’ she explained.
Sütő noted that cybercrime is now a global issue, with fraudsters causing damage worth a staggering one trillion dollars worldwide in 2018. Both businesses and individuals are targeted, and unsuspecting victims can lose their entire fortunes within moments. She stressed that older individuals are particularly vulnerable, with scammers targeting them and exploiting their trust more frequently.
Senior Advisor to the Security Directorate of OTP Bank László Sonjic debunked the myth that online fraud typically involves hacking into banking systems. ‘In most cases, users themselves provide confidential information that criminals exploit,’ he said.
Head of Department at the Ministry of Justice Gabriella Diamantopoulosné Kenyeres highlighted the importance of victim support services, which include a 24/7 helpline and victim assistance centres operating for over a decade. She described common scams involving fake e-commerce offers, fraudulent courier services, and phoney investment opportunities, often leaving victims with empty bank accounts.
To address immediate financial distress, victims can apply for emergency financial aid through government offices. Kenyeres also underlined the importance of emotional support for victims, who are often left in a state of shock, with psychologists available to help if needed.
Coordinator at the Budapest Victim Support Centre Orsolya Bíróné Szunai shared a success story where swift reporting to the police and bank enabled a victim to recover 15 million forints stolen through fraud.
Expert at the National Bureau of Investigation Viktor Halász explained that while fraudsters still primarily rely on gaining victims’ trust to access sensitive data, they increasingly incorporate modern technology into their schemes. He urged vigilance against suspicious activity, such as alleged bank representatives requesting sensitive information like PIN codes or encouraging the download of specific software or apps.
The panellists unanimously agreed on the importance of public education, given the explosive rise in online fraud cases. They affirmed that while banking systems remain secure, it is vital for users to follow recommendations such as enabling two-factor authentication to safeguard their finances.
As cybercriminals become more sophisticated, awareness and precaution are critical to ensuring a safe festive season for all.
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