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Updated 05:41

Eastern-accent caller steals 1,500 zł with BLIK code

A fake bank caller used an eastern accent to trick a 43-year-old into giving a BLIK code in a BLIK code scam.

A fake bank caller with an eastern accent convinced a 43-year-old woman to share a one-time payment code. The BLIK code scam shows how social engineering targets trust in Poland’s banking apps and mobile payments.

How the caller fooled the victim

The woman reported the crime at the Łęczna police station. Moreover, she said the man claimed to be a bank employee. However, he spoke with an eastern accent and described repeated login attempts. Consequently, he told her to block the account to stop further access. In addition, he asked her to open her mobile banking app. Then he ordered her to generate a BLIK code and send it to him. As a result, the fraudster used the code to withdraw 1,500 zł from her account.

BLIK code scam: why this case matters

BLIK lets Poles pay and withdraw cash with a short code from their banking app. Moreover, banks never ask customers for that code. Therefore, anyone who requests it likely acts with criminal intent. In addition, scammers often pretend to work for banks, police, or other authorities. However, the caller in this case asked for direct access to the account via a code. Consequently, the victim lost money quickly.

The attack shows how fraud adapts to popular tools. Moreover, mobile payments and instant transfers make theft faster. Therefore, users must verify calls before acting. In addition, people should not install remote access apps or transfer funds to so-called “safe accounts.” However, some victims comply because they fear losing access to benefits or payments. For context, Polish public systems include ZUS (social insurance), NFZ (health fund), and ID identifiers like PESEL. These names may sound official to foreigners; yet legitimate offices will not demand banking codes.

Practical steps to protect yourself

First, end any suspicious call. Then call your bank using the number on its website or your card. Moreover, visit a branch if you feel unsure. Second, never share a password, SMS code, or BLIK code. Therefore, treat any request for codes as a red flag. In addition, set up two-factor authentication where available. Moreover, notify the police immediately if you lose money. Consequently, acting fast increases the chance of recovery.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: In Poland, banks, the police, and public institutions will never ask for your online banking password, an SMS authorization code, or a BLIK code. If someone pressures you, hang up and call the bank on a trusted number. Also, note that institutions like ZUS handle pensions and contributions, while NFZ covers public healthcare. If you receive calls about your PESEL (national ID) or “mandat” (police fine), verify with the issuing authority in person or by its official phone number.

Source: Read original article

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Poland Radar

Poland Radar is an independent English-language news portal covering local Polish news and expat life in Poland. Our editorial team monitors Polish media daily to deliver relevant, accessible news for the international community living in Poland. We cover breaking news, safety alerts, legal updates and practical guides for expats across Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław and beyond.

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