Experts have provided tips on how to avoid falling victim to scammers when installing air conditioners.

      May 26, 2026 08:00 Society At the end of May, an abnormal heat settled in most regions of Russia, leading to a sharp increase in demand for air conditioners. During this period, fraudsters became active, offering their services for the installation of split systems. Many Russians, eager to escape the heat, fell victim to scams.

      Why does this happen?

      Every year, with the onset of heat, air conditioners become one of the most popular topics for fraudsters. High demand and the desire to quickly install a cooling device lead people to become less vigilant and more willing to share their personal information.

      Cybersecurity expert Pavel Myasoedov noted in an interview with 360.ru that with the arrival of a new season, the number of requests online usually increases, which fraudsters actively exploit. They use various methods to attract attention, such as creating phishing websites with enticing offers of discounts, free master visits, and other favorable conditions. These sites can look very similar to real ones, making them difficult to recognize.

      Moreover, fraudsters actively use artificial intelligence to create convincing texts and generate documents that look real. This makes their schemes even more dangerous.

      Main fraud schemes

      Fraudulent schemes involving air conditioners can be divided into two main categories:

      - Data collection for account hacking. Fraudsters create websites with attractive offers where they collect users' personal data. This can include passport details, email addresses, passwords, and other confidential information. The obtained data can be used to hack accounts and steal other personal information.

      - Direct calls or phishing ads. Fraudsters may call potential victims on behalf of private companies and offer the installation of split systems at significant discounts. They may ask for a code from an SMS to confirm the order. In some cases, this can lead to account hacking through the confirmation code or payment for work that no one will perform.

      How to avoid becoming a victim of fraudsters?

      As cybersecurity specialist Alexey Kurochkin points out, it is important to realize that criminals do not focus on any specific product or service; their main task is to use current events for their purposes.

      To avoid falling for fraudsters' tricks, it is important to follow these rules:

      - Do not share the code from the SMS with anyone. Neither the air conditioner installation master nor a bank employee has the right to request this information. If someone calls you and asks for the code, hang up immediately.

      - Call back yourself. If you are offered a service but doubt its authenticity, do not act on the instructions of the caller. Find the number of a verified company yourself and call them back.

      - Sign contracts. Pay only after the work is completed and a corresponding contract is signed.

      - Use antivirus software. Install professional antivirus software that blocks phishing links.

      - Choose reliable browsers. Use browsers with built-in protection against dangerous sites and filters for malware.

      - Be vigilant. Read the media and stay informed about current fraud schemes. Awareness is the best way to protect yourself.

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