Russia Introduces Optional SMS Fraud Protection for Children's Mobile Numbers

How the Scam Works

SMS-based fraud targeting children exploits mobile numbers through several methods:

• Sending unsolicited advertisements directing minors to malicious websites
• Intercepting authentication codes to gain unauthorized access to children's accounts
• Stealing personal information for resale or further fraudulent schemes

New Protection Measures

Russia's Ministry of Digital Development has enabled mobile carriers to implement optional protections with parental consent:

• Blocking advertising SMS: Filtering out marketing-related fraudulent messages
• Restricting authentication SMS: Preventing SMS-based authentication codes from non-authorized services
• Government service exemption: Codes from official state services (e.g., public administration portals) continue to be delivered normally

These measures are voluntary and require parental request to activate.

Warning Signs

Be alert if:

• Your child receives authentication codes from unfamiliar services
• They receive suspicious advertisements promoting unknown websites
• Login attempt notifications appear for accounts your child didn't create
• Messages request personal information or credentials

Prevention Tips

For Parents:

• Contact your mobile carrier to request enhanced protection settings for your child's number
• Educate your child about the dangers of clicking links in SMS messages
• Review your carrier's protection options regularly

For Children:

• Never share authentication codes with anyone
• Avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages
• Report suspicious activity immediately to parents

Where to Report

• Your mobile carrier's customer support (to enable protective measures)
• Russian law enforcement cybercrime division (to report fraud attempts)
• Consumer protection agencies (for fraud complaints)