Police warn public over fake emails impersonating authorities

Greek police have warned the public about a wave of fraudulent emails falsely claiming to originate from law enforcement and cybersecurity authorities, urging recipients not to respond or disclose personal information.

In a statement, the Hellenic Police said cybercriminals are sending messages that unlawfully use the names and logos of official institutions, including the police, national cybersecurity agencies, European cybersecurity bodies and even the chief of the Greek Police.

Authorities said the emails are designed to create fear and panic in order to trick recipients into revealing personal or financial information.

The fraudulent emails often carry subject lines such as "Cybercrime Attack" and accuse recipients of various offenses, demanding an urgent response.

Some messages reportedly contain threats of legal action, fines or arrest in an attempt to pressure individuals into complying.

Greek police stressed that the emails have no connection to any official authority.

Public advised to delete messages

Police urged citizens to:

Not reply to suspicious emails;

Avoid clicking on any links contained in the messages;

Refrain from opening attached files;

Never share personal, banking or other sensitive information;

Delete the email immediately.

Authorities also advised anyone who has interacted with such messages to contact the relevant police units as soon as possible.

Rise in online fraud

The police reiterated that government agencies do not request personal information, payments or legal defenses via email.

The warning comes amid ongoing efforts by authorities to combat online fraud and phishing schemes that use fake official communications to target unsuspecting victims.

Officials urged the public to remain vigilant and verify the authenticity of any message claiming to come from a public institution.