Security services in the Wilaya of Sétif have opened cases concerning fraud and electronic crime, initiating investigations into various digital illicit activities. In response, the security services of the Wilaya of Sétif have issued two separate public appeals regarding impersonation scams, noting a growing threat to citizens. Suspects have been impersonating employees of Algérie Poste (بريد الجزائر) on social media, using fake electronic pages and accounts to lure victims. These fraudulent pages offered attractive commercial deals, specifically for installment sales of light and heavy vehicles, as a front to steal money. Fraudulent crimes have shifted from traditional direct methods to social media and digital platforms, according to authorities, necessitating increased vigilance from the public.
How Scammers Operate
Scammers contacted citizens by phone, claiming issues with their postal accounts or "golden cards" (cartes dorées). They subsequently instructed victims to transmit photographs of their golden cards and associated Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) through various communication applications. This method enabled fraudsters to gain unauthorized access to accounts, subsequently allowing them to withdraw funds illicitly. Investigations into the fraud also uncovered the exploitation of "Facebook" pages designed to ensnare additional victims. These pages featured deceptive advertisements, bolstered by images, official-looking logos, and names crafted to suggest credibility and affiliation with legitimate institutions. Those wishing to make purchases were lured into paying down payments and sending personal documents and sensitive information. The perpetrators further enhanced their schemes by utilizing authentic photographs and the logos of well-known institutions, alongside operating multiple phone numbers to facilitate their fraudulent activities. Fraudsters are increasingly relying on professionalism in creating these deceptive pages and advertisements, making them appear highly convincing.
Official Response and Appeals
The appeals were issued based on orders from the Public Prosecutor at the Ain El Kebira court, showing the seriousness of the ongoing investigations. These appeals urged anyone who was a victim or had dealt with the suspects to approach judicial or security authorities without delay. Authorities issued these calls under Article 26 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, which allows for public appeals in criminal investigations. Security services requested anyone who has been subjected to similar operations or has information about the suspects' activities to contact the Public Prosecution at the Ain El Kebira court or the security services of the Amoucha district. The objective is to gather further information and facilitate the ongoing investigation into the impersonation schemes targeting Algérie Poste customers, aiming to bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent further incidents.
Public Awareness and Precautions
Official institutions, including Algérie Poste and various banks, do not request customers to transmit Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) or photographs of electronic cards through phone calls or messages. Citizens are strongly advised to verify the identity of callers and to remain vigilant, not allowing themselves to be misled by fraudulent offers or enticing advertisements encountered online. Authorities note that fraudsters are increasingly demonstrating a high level of professionalism in creating deceptive social media pages and advertisements, making them appear legitimate. This sophisticated approach aims to ensnare unsuspecting individuals, noting the necessity for public caution when engaging with online promotions or communications purporting to be from official entities. Citizens are urged to verify the identity of callers and not be swayed by fake offers and tempting advertisements, particularly those that pressure them for personal financial information.