Russian Banks Introduce ‘Trusted Hands’ to Protect Clients from Fraud

Starting September 1, Russian banks will roll out a new security feature that allows customers to appoint a trusted person to confirm suspicious transactions before they go through.

On September 1, Russian banks will launch a new anti-fraud service called “Trusted Hands.” According to the Central Bank, the system lets a client voluntarily assign a trusted individual who will double-check money transfers. Without this person’s digital approval, the bank will block any transaction—including card payments, instant transfers, and cash withdrawals.

Here’s how it works: as soon as a suspicious payment is detected, the trusted person receives a notification. They then have 12 hours to approve or reject the transfer. If no response is given, the transaction is automatically canceled.

Importantly, the service is entirely voluntary. It is expected to be especially useful for elderly clients or parents of teenagers who already have their own bank cards.

The safeguard also prevents scammers who gain access to a victim’s device from immediately disabling the protection.

Clients choose their trusted contacts themselves. The role can be assigned to any competent adult—relative, friend, or colleague. The only restriction is that the chosen individual must not appear in databases linked to extremism or terrorism. At the same time, the trusted person never gains access to the account or the ability to manage funds independently.