Question 1

What is the "Fake Traffic Fine SMS Payment Scam" scam in Thessaloniki?

Accepted Answer

A wave of fraudulent SMS messages recorded across Greece in early 2026 — reported by Athens News in March 2026 — informs recipients of alleged unpaid traffic violations and directs them to click a link for immediate payment. The messages impersonate Greek government traffic authorities and use urgency language about escalating fines or licence suspension. Tourists who have recently driven or rented a car in the Thessaloniki area are plausible targets, as they may have genuine uncertainty about whether they incurred a fine. The payment link leads to a fraudulent page that harvests card details. Greek authorities do not send fine notifications by SMS with payment links. Any SMS about an unpaid traffic fine should be verified directly with the local municipality or car rental company before clicking any link. If you rented a car, contact the rental company who will handle any genuine fines formally through post.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Online Accommodation Listings" scam in Thessaloniki?

Accepted Answer

Fraudulent short-term rental listings for Thessaloniki apartments appear on secondary booking platforms, social media groups, and clone sites mimicking Booking.com or Airbnb. Victims pay deposits or full amounts upfront via bank transfer, then arrive to find the property does not exist, belongs to someone unaware their photos were stolen, or differs drastically from the listing. Greek cybercrime units have traced several operations to organised networks using servers across Greece including Thessaloniki. Book only through major verified platforms (Booking.com, Airbnb, official hotel sites) and pay via credit card rather than bank transfer. Cross-check the exact address on Google Street View before paying. Be suspicious of any listing that requests direct bank transfer to avoid platform fees.

Question 3

What is the "Bank Phishing SMS and Fake Payment Pages" scam in Thessaloniki?

Accepted Answer

Tourists and visitors in Thessaloniki receive SMS messages impersonating Greek banks (Piraeus Bank, Alpha Bank, National Bank of Greece) warning of account suspension or unusual activity, and directing recipients to click a link. The link leads to a convincing fake banking portal that harvests card numbers and one-time passwords. Greek cybercrime police dismantled a major phishing network in 2025 that targeted both locals and foreign visitors with Greek SIM cards, with individual losses reaching tens of thousands of euros. Greek banks never send clickable links asking you to verify card details via SMS. If you receive such a message, call your bank directly using the number on the back of your card. Avoid inserting a local SIM purchased in tourist areas without first confirming the vendor is licensed.

Online Scams in Thessaloniki

Fake Traffic Fine SMS Payment Scam

Fake Online Accommodation Listings

Bank Phishing SMS and Fake Payment Pages

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