Arrest of 24-year-old for SMS scams "traffic CY" and "CY MEDICAL" – thousands of euros from two victims
A 24-year-old foreign national was arrested in Nicosia for SMS scams that cost two citizens over €4,700.
Arrests for SMS scams using fake senders in Cyprus
Police arrested a 24-year-old foreign national, resident of Nicosia, accused of theft, fraud through information systems and money laundering from illegal activities, according to Philenews.
Based on evidence being investigated by the Larnaca CID, on 21 September 2026 a 76-year-old reported that he received an SMS from a sender displaying "traffic CY". After opening the message, he entered his bank card number. Subsequently, according to the complaint, two withdrawals were made from ATMs in Nicosia, totalling €3,963.
A second complaint was filed on 2 October by a 68-year-old, who reported that he received a similar message with the sender name "CY MEDICAL". After entering his credit card details, it was found that €770 had been taken from him.
From police investigations, evidence was secured against the 24-year-old and an arrest warrant was issued. The suspect was arrested around midday, and subsequently a search was conducted at his residence, from which evidence was recovered for further examination.
The 24-year-old is expected to be brought before court on Wednesday, where police will seek the issuance of a remand order. The case continues to be investigated by the Larnaca CID.
Source: Philenews