Scams in Poland

About

Scam is a form of fraud that involves inducing trust in someone and then using that trust to extort money or personal information. The perpetrators of scams use increasingly sophisticated methods, often including the use of social engineering. Most often, the procedure involves mass-mailing in electronic form, direct telephone contact or various types of website solicitations. The basic types of scams using social engineering include grandparent and policeman scam, or scam using popular classifieds sites such as OLX or Vinted. The victim of a scammer is convinced that a policeman, clerk or bank employee is calling him and follows any instructions that are given to him, which ends up with the scammer obtaining personal information or passwords.

Among the varieties of scam can also be mentioned:

  • phishing – extortion of data and other sensitive information. The acquired data is usually used to make a transfer, take out a loan or open a new bank account;
  • spear phishing – a personalized email attack that involves sending messages to as many recipients as possible, targeting a pre-selected group;
  • smishing – a scam based on a scammer sending messages containing links with malware, e.g. to fake websites or asking for a small surcharge on a courier or electricity bill;
  • vishing – otherwise known as voice phishing. This type of scam does not require advanced IT knowledge and involves phishing during a phone call. The scammer may impersonate a representative of a public institution or a person known to the caller, e.g. an employee is called by a scammer pretending to be a superior or the president of a company and asking for access to specific information. An employee can be manipulated into a scam by using voice-altering tools.

There is a high rate of scam growth worldwide. A large part of it is carried out using mobile devices, and the attacks consist of attempts to seize login credentials for a bank or financial operator’s application. The largest increase in attacks has been registered in emerging markets, where digital transformation is progressing and e-banking is increasingly important and has more customers. To better illustrate the scale of the phenomenon in question, it should be noted that the value of extorted funds by criminals in hacking, phishing and other types of scam attacks amounted to hundreds of millions of dollars in the first half of 2023 alone.

In Poland, reports provided by banks show that the number and value of fraudulent card and credit transfer transactions are mainly examined, with card transactions dominating in terms of the number of frauds. If one compares the value of the money defrauded, transactions via credit transfer caused greater losses. In recent years, more than 85% of frauds involving card transactions have been carried out abroad.

The scope of services provided by our law firm:

  • legal assistance in responding to fraud cases, including, among other things, contacting financial institutions, as well as assistance in reporting the incident via the website – CERT Poland’s computer incident response team;
  • legal counseling to redress the damage caused by the crime, including the drafting of criminal notifications;
  • representation of the victim in criminal proceedings both at the preparatory and judicial proceedings stage,
  • support in ongoing contacts with law enforcement agencies and the judiciary;
  • cooperation with expert witnesses in the field of information technology;
  • conducting trainings.

Our offer is addressed to:

  • persons victimized by scam;
  • financial institutions;
  • companies seeking criminal compliance specialists;
  • experts seeking criminal legal expertise.
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Scam is a form of fraud that manipulates trust to extort money or personal information, often employing sophisticated social engineering techniques. Common methods include mass electronic mailings, direct phone contact, and website solicitations. Types of scams encompass phishing (data extortion for unauthorized transactions), spear phishing (personalized email attacks targeting specific groups), smishing (sending malicious links via SMS), and vishing (voice phishing during phone calls, impersonating officials or known individuals). There is a significant global increase in scams, particularly via mobile devices aiming to capture banking credentials, with emerging markets experiencing the highest growth. In Poland, fraudulent card and credit transfer transactions are prevalent, with card frauds dominating in number but credit transfers causing greater losses.

Our law firm provides services such as legal assistance in fraud cases, representation in criminal proceedings, support in interactions with law enforcement, cooperation with IT expert witnesses, and conducting trainings. We cater to scam victims, financial institutions, companies needing compliance specialists, and experts seeking legal expertise.

Avoid being scammed

Common scams can take many forms:

  • scam email
  • phone scam
  • cyber crime
  • phishing
  • suspicious phone call
  • doorstep scams
  • investment scams

Criminals use our trust and build a story to look more trustworthy. Sometimes it’s very difficult to notice a scam and even not vulnerable people can be affected. It is very important to recognise the signs: look closely at email addresses, reject suspicious phone numbers and text messages, not give  any personal or financial information to people you don’t know. Never share bank details.

Protect Yourself Against Scams with Professional Legal Support

Scams can cause significant financial and personal harm, especially as perpetrators use increasingly sophisticated social engineering techniques. If you or your organization have fallen victim to a scam or need proactive measures to prevent fraud, our law firm is here to help. We offer comprehensive legal assistance, including representation in criminal proceedings, damage recovery, and collaboration with IT experts to investigate incidents thoroughly.

Our team specializes in supporting victims, financial institutions, and companies seeking to strengthen their defenses against scams. Whether it’s phishing, vishing, or other types of fraud, we provide tailored solutions to protect your rights and minimize losses. Contact us today to ensure you have the expert legal support needed to tackle scams effectively and safeguard your interests.

Any questions?

Paweł Gołębiewski

Attorney-at-law, Head of International Criminal Law Practice

+48 509 211 000

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the experts
Maciej Zaborowski

Maciej Zaborowski

Advocate, Managing Partner

Paweł Gołębiewski

Paweł Gołębiewski

Attorney-at-law, Head of International Criminal Law Practice

FAQ

What are scams and how do they commonly occur in Poland?

Scams are fraudulent schemes where criminals manipulate or deceive victims to gain money or sensitive information. In Poland, scams often use social engineering tactics such as fake phone calls, phishing emails, or counterfeit websites. Scammers may impersonate officials, bank employees, or charity representatives to exploit victims’ trust and prompt them to transfer funds or disclose personal data.

What are the most common types of scams in Poland?

  • Phishing: Criminals send emails or SMS messages pretending to be trusted institutions like banks, asking for passwords or bank details, which they then use to steal money.
  • Vishing and Smishing: Voice or text message scams where the scammer calls or texts pretending to be a police officer, bank clerk, or government official, instructing victims to perform actions that expose their money or data.
  • Fake Charity Scams: Fraudsters impersonate charity collectors, especially during crises, to solicit donations that never reach genuine causes.
  • Investment Scams: Scammers promise high returns on investments, often in cryptocurrencies or fake funds, and then disappear with the money.
  • Overcharging and Pickpocketing: Tourists are targeted with inflated prices by taxi drivers or distracted while others steal wallets in crowded places.
  • Impersonation of Police or Officials: Scammers pretend to be officers requesting money or sensitive information with threats or false claims.

How are scams in Poland evolving recently?

With technology advances, scammers are using more sophisticated methods, including deepfake audio, fake apps, and AI-generated impersonations. The use of mobile devices for phishing and social engineering has surged, increasing risks of hacking bank accounts or stealing identity. Cyber fraud losses remain high, with victims often unaware of the scams until harm occurs.

What should victims of scams in Poland do immediately?

  • Report the scam to their bank or financial institution to block transactions or freeze accounts.
  • File a police report at the nearest station or online to start official investigations.
  • Contact consumer protection agencies for guidance and support.
  • Preserve all communications and evidence related to the scam for authorities.
  • Avoid further contact or transactions with suspected scammers.

What legal protections and assistance exist for victims of scams in Poland?

  • Victims can seek legal advice and help from specialized law firms experienced in criminal and fraud cases.
  • Authorities conduct criminal investigations where possible to identify and prosecute perpetrators.
  • Victims may participate as injured parties in criminal proceedings, enabling them to pursue compensation.
  • Free legal aid is available in many cities, often in multiple languages, offering guidance on consumer rights and fraud cases.

How can individuals and businesses protect themselves against scams in Poland?

  • Be cautious of unsolicited calls, messages, or emails asking for confidential information.
  • Verify identities of callers by contacting official institutions directly using known contacts.
  • Use secure passwords and two-factor authentication for online banking and services.
  • Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown attachments.
  • Use official websites and trusted sources for donations or investments.
  • Educate employees and family members about current scam tactics and prevention.

Who are the typical targets of scams in Poland?

  • Tourists unfamiliar with local scams, particularly in cities like Warsaw and Krakow.
  • Elderly persons and vulnerable individuals trusting unsolicited contacts.
  • Businesses, especially for investment fraud or internal employees involved in embezzlement.
  • Online users exposed to phishing and fake websites.
  • Immigrants and foreigners often targeted with complex scams including fake immigration services.

What role does criminal compliance play in combating scams?

Criminal compliance helps businesses establish internal controls to detect and prevent fraud and corruption. It involves risk assessments, employee training, whistleblower protection, and cooperation with law enforcement. Compliance programs reduce vulnerability to scams and help minimize legal and financial consequences if incidents occur.

Are there specific scams targeting tourists in Poland?

Yes, tourists should watch out for:

  • Overcharging by taxi drivers or restaurants.
  • Pickpocketing in crowded tourist spots.
  • “Good Samaritan” scams where someone offers help then demands payment.
  • Fake ticket or parking spot sellers demanding fees after service.
  • Phone scams impersonating hotel or travel staff requesting credit card details.

How widespread are scams in Poland and what trends are emerging?

Scams, especially online fraud and phishing, have been increasing steadily in recent years. Poland is among the countries most targeted by ransomware and cyber fraud globally. As scammers adapt to new technologies, ongoing awareness and legal intervention remain critical. Public education and law enforcement efforts are continuously evolving to mitigate these threats.

This FAQ aims to provide essential, clear information about the nature, risks, and protections related to scams in Poland, both for individuals and businesses. If you suspect you have been targeted or need legal assistance related to scams, consulting specialists in Polish criminal law and fraud cases is strongly recommended.