CBDC Fraud Cases Surge in Russia as Digital Ruble Pension Payments Loom

Russia's Central Bank has issued a stark warning about escalating digital ruble-related fraud schemes, coinciding with Moscow's preparations to distribute pension benefits via CBDC. Rostov Oblast authorities report criminals are exploiting contactless payment narratives and stolen Central Bank branding to lure victims.

Fraudsters operate through social media channels, pitching fake passive income opportunities tied to the upcoming digital currency. The scams involve sophisticated impersonation tactics—first through phishing messages, followed by coordinated calls from accomplices posing as investment managers. Victims are pressured with false urgency about limited-time low entry thresholds.

The scheme's operational sophistication raises concerns about public CBDC adoption hurdles. Criminals have constructed mirror websites using pirated Central Bank assets, eroding trust in legitimate digital ruble infrastructure ahead of its pension system integration.