Scammers Create Fake News Portal, Use Official's Image to Lure Investments

The State Police of Latvia (VP) have received information about a fraudulent website that visually resembles a well-known news portal but is fake. It contains a fabricated article that illegally uses the image of a state official, creating a false impression that the official endorses an investment platform and urges people to invest.

The scammers use an emotional and sensational headline to attract attention and imply that the article reveals previously unknown information. Such schemes often employ the names and images of well-known public figures to build trust.

The VP has previously warned about similar fake investment advertisements. Citizens often encounter scammers by filling out application forms on social media such as Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, etc. The ads feature fabricated success stories and names of famous people. After filling out the form, fake brokers contact the person and use manipulation to steal money from bank accounts; in some cases, they also take out loans in the victim's name.

The VP reminds that scammers monitor current events and quickly adapt their schemes. Artificial intelligence is increasingly used to create more convincing images and videos. Before investing, the VP advises always checking whether the financial service provider has a license to operate in Latvia—this can be verified on the Bank of Latvia's website.

The VP urges everyone to be cautious, not to disclose banking information, and to critically evaluate requests from strangers.