In just one day, phone scammers stole more than 3.7 million lei from Moldovans.
The numbers are rising again. Within 24 hours alone, authorities registered 23 scam calls across the country. In 18 cases, victims transferred money. Total losses exceeded 3.7 million lei.
The fraudsters call and message people while pretending to be anyone: bank employees, government officials, Moldcell representatives, Premier Energy staff, sometimes even couriers.
The goal is always the same: obtain bank card details, confirmation codes, passwords — or simply convince people to transfer money to a so-called “secure account.”
Cases were reported in four locations: Chișinău, Bălți, Soroca and Ungheni.
Police say the scheme is old, but it still works. People continue trusting strangers calling from unknown numbers and exploiting fear.
Scammers posing as Premier Energy representatives have been particularly active. The company already commented on the issue back in March 2026, and its warnings remain relevant today.
How the scheme works
An unknown caller contacts the victim and claims to be an employee of the energy company. They say the electricity meter urgently needs replacing and threaten to cut off power if the customer refuses. To “process the replacement,” they ask for passport details.
Premier Energy warns:
“We do not request document information over the phone. Meter replacements are carried out according to schedule and do not require customers to share personal data.”
The company also reminds customers that it operates official phone numbers and a 24/7 hotline.
“For questions or problems related to the power grid, contact our 24-hour support service at 022 43 11 11 or the number indicated on your bill,” Premier Energy stated.
Authorities keep repeating the same warning, yet people still fall victim.
Neither banks, government agencies nor energy companies will ever call and ask for:
• your bank card number
• CVV code
• SMS verification code
• app password
If someone calls asking for this information — hang up immediately.
Do not call back. Do not continue the conversation. If you are unsure, contact the organization yourself using the number listed on its official website or in your contract.
All suspicious calls can be reported to the police by dialing 112.
And it is better to do so immediately — before the scammer calls the next victim.
