Scammers revive 'Vote for Olya' messenger scam in Kyiv

Scammers revive 'Vote for Olya' messenger scam in Kyiv AI

FaceNews reports (citing Informator Kyiv) that fraudsters have restarted a “Vote for Olya” scheme spreading through messengers and social networks. Since 26 September 2026, hacked contacts send requests to support a child with a voting link that, when used, can give attackers full account access. Kyiv users frequently get chain messages; double-check any unexpected voting requests by contacting the sender directly before clicking links or entering credentials.

Fraudsters have restarted a familiar online trick: a hacked account sends a message asking contacts to vote for a child, niece or goddaughter in an online contest, with a link to cast the vote. The message looks natural because it appears to come from someone you know.

According to FaceNews (citing Informator Kyiv), the danger begins after following the link. A prompt for “quick authorization” can hand over control of the user’s profile. Attackers then use the compromised account to send the same bait to that person’s contacts and, in some cases, attempt to extort money from them.

Experts recommend verifying such requests through a separate channel (call or new message), never entering credentials after an unexpected link, enabling two-factor authentication, changing passwords if you suspect a breach, and reporting hacked accounts to the platform and your contacts.

Know what Kyiv knows.