Launched in March as a homegrown alternative to WhatsApp and Telegram, the Kremlin-backed messaging app Max is rapidly becoming a household name. This ascent, however, is marred by a surge in account-rental scams, as fraudsters lure users with the promise of cash for access to their profiles. According to a report by the business newspaper Kommersant, these scammers are relentless, with up to 1,000 advertisements surfacing daily on darknet forums and Telegram channels. The offers range from $10 to $250 for temporary access to Max accounts, creating a lucrative, yet illicit, marketplace.
The primary motive behind these scams is to leverage legitimate accounts to circumvent spam filters, thereby enabling fraudulent activities. Victims of these scams are often persuaded into transferring money or disclosing critical financial information. Alarmingly, officials estimate that a significant portion, about 9%, of fraudulent calls in Russia can now be traced back to Max. Analysts suggest this figure could more than double by the end of the year, underscoring the pressing need for enhanced security measures.
Collaboration for Enhanced Security
In response to the rising scams, the developers of Max have maintained that account rental remains an isolated issue, though they acknowledge its potential impact. They emphasized their ongoing efforts in blocking suspicious activities, noting that in August alone, they intercepted 67,000 dubious accounts. To fortify their defenses, Max has partnered with notable entities such as Sberbank and Kaspersky Lab. This collaboration aims to tighten security protocols and protect users from the increasing threat of account-related scams.
Adding another layer of deterrence, new legal measures were enacted on September 1, criminalizing the transfer of accounts for messengers, social media, and gaming, alongside SIM card transfers. Those caught violating these laws in fraud-related situations could face up to two years of imprisonment. The Interior Ministry has identified account rentals as a primary tactic exploited by scam call centers operating on Max, highlighting the urgency of addressing these fraudulent schemes.
The regulatory changes, coupled with Max's strategic partnerships, aim to curtail the spread of these scams. As the messaging app continues to position itself as a secure platform for schools, universities, and government agencies, the developers remain committed to safeguarding their users against the evolving landscape of digital fraud. Despite the challenges that come with rapid growth, Max’s proactive measures underline a long-term dedication to user security and trust.
