In Odesa region, fraudsters extorted 150 thousand from entrepreneurs on behalf of the chief tax officer of the region

In Odesa region, entrepreneurs have been receiving emails asking for financial assistance in the amount of UAH 150,000 to purchase military ammunition and equipment for further transfer to the needs of the Armed Forces.

According to the State Tax Service of the region, officials of the Main Department of the State Tax Service in Odesa region have nothing to do with sending such letters.

"To prevent fraudsters, we ask you to be vigilant and cautious, not to believe dubious offers, carefully check the information, do not succumb to provocations and under no circumstances transfer funds," the tax office said.

Photo screen: Main Department of the State Tax Service in Odesa region

When you receive such letters:

• Do not transfer funds without confirming that the request is official.

Report it:

• Main Department of the State Tax Service in Odesa region by phone (048) 707-28-54, (048) 707-29-43, (048) 725-65-05,
• National Police by calling 102,
• the Pulse service of the State Tax Service of Ukraine at 0800 501 007.

This is not the first time in Odesa region that fraudsters have acted on behalf of government officials. In particular, the Izmail District State Administration recorded the distribution of letters in the Odesa region allegedly on behalf of the head of the District State Administration Rodion Abashev, which were sent by fraudsters. These letters contained a request to participate in humanitarian aid and to provide financial resources for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

In April 2024, Odesa police sent to court the case of an organized criminal group of pseudo-volunteers who were extorting money from residents of the region to help the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Also, unknown persons, using the fake Facebook page of the head of the Bolhrad District State Administration Mykhailo Sharafanenko and messengers, are asking for financial assistance for the alleged purchase of equipment for the military.

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