Russian Marketplace Warns Against Surge in Telegram-Based Scams

Fake Telegram groups and clone websites are targeting online shoppers with offers of easy money, stealing both funds and personal data.

Wildberries & Russ, a major Russian online marketplace, has issued a warning about a growing wave of scams exploiting its brand. Criminals are using Telegram channels, closed chats, and fake websites to lure users with promises of quick profits through alleged partnerships with the marketplace. Victims, however, end up losing money and personal information.

According to the company’s press service, scammers often impersonate influencers or Wildberries representatives and pitch unrealistic, high-reward offers. Common red flags include requests to follow third-party links, pay upfront fees, or share sensitive data such as access codes or bank details.

Wildberries urges users to verify all information through its official channels and ignore unsolicited or suspicious messages.

Experts say these scams are proliferating alongside the growth of e-commerce. Social media and messaging app users are frequent targets, as scammers deploy psychological pressure and false guarantees to build trust. The company warns users to stay vigilant and never share personal data—even if the message appears to come from a company employee.