Scammers Impersonate Lawyers and Journalists for Investment Fraud

A new scam operation is targeting Israelis by impersonating well-known lawyers and journalists to lure victims into fraudulent investment schemes. Scammers create fake profiles using the names and photos of professionals and public figures to draw people into WhatsApp and Telegram groups focused on investments, with the ultimate goal of stealing personal information and money.

The impersonators proactively contact individuals, claiming to be recognizable figures, and invite them to join seemingly legitimate investment groups on messaging apps. This is done to build initial trust before attempting to collect personal and financial details and then perpetrating fraud.

Within these groups, a sophisticated trust-building mechanism is employed. Administrators post regular updates, analyses, and recommendations, engaging in active discussions to create an impression of professionalism and security. Once a sense of trust is established, the scammers initiate private messages with members, offering various investment opportunities.

Among the victims are lawyers Anat Kaufman and Adi Levi Skop. Kaufman's impersonator sent direct messages using her name and photo, inviting recipients to a WhatsApp group for discussions on real estate, stocks, ETFs, and gold investments. Kaufman's law firm issued a formal warning, stating they have no connection to the group or its investment offers and that Kaufman does not solicit investments or manage such groups. They urged the public not to join, click links, transfer funds, or share personal or financial information.

Journalist Adva Dadon also warned of an impersonator who used her identity to invite users to a "free" WhatsApp group offering financial advice and retirement planning. Similarly, Kan public broadcaster journalist Gili Cohen alerted the public to an impersonator operating on Telegram.

Yoav Keren, CEO of cybersecurity firm BrandShield, explained that the choice of targets is strategic, as attackers leverage the reputation of real individuals to lower victims' suspicion. They then move victims to controlled environments like WhatsApp groups to collect information, present investment offers, and attempt to extract money. Keren emphasized the importance of recognizing warning signs, advising people to verify such solicitations through official channels and avoid clicking links, sharing details, or transferring money before confirming the identity of the person on the other end.