#DreptulLaBanking: Romanian Banking Association (ARB) Warning on Fraud Targeting Companies

March 17, 2026

The Romanian Banking Association (ARB) warns entrepreneurs about fraud schemes targeting companies in Romania, involving the fraudulent use of the identity of the National Agency for Fiscal Administration (ANAF), the National Health Insurance House, and certain banking institutions. In recent months, several such fraud attempts have been reported in the business environment, in which fraudsters have presented themselves as representatives of ANAF, the National Health Insurance House, or commercial banks.

By invoking VAT refund procedures, health contribution reimbursements, or alleged outstanding liabilities to ANAF, fraudsters request access to Internet Banking applications through screen‑sharing functionalities and persuade clients to disclose their Internet Banking credentials or to initiate various transfers to accounts indicated by the fraudsters.

The Romanian Banking Association recommends that company representatives take into account the following advice in order to prevent fraud and to protect funds and the security of financial operations:

• Never provide access to Internet or Mobile Banking applications;
• Do not install applications at the request of unknown persons;
• Do not disclose banking details, passwords, or security codes;
• Do not access links received from suspicious sources;
• Verify any request purportedly sent on behalf of a public institution or a bank exclusively through official channels.

If an individual or a company suspects a fraud attempt or has already fallen victim to such a scheme, it is recommended to immediately contact the bank and notify the competent authorities.

Common Fraud Tactics

Fraudsters exploit the business community’s trust in public institutions and the banking sector, using social engineering techniques to persuade victims to grant access to bank accounts or to the devices used for banking operations. Fraudsters contact company representatives by phone or send false links that appear to originate from public institutions, claiming to represent ANAF or CNAS, and invoke VAT refund procedures, health contribution reimbursements, or alleged outstanding liabilities to ANAF.

Under the pretext of providing assistance, victims are manipulated into installing applications and granting access to their mobile phones and/or laptops. As a result of these actions, criminals are able to initiate transfers from the accounts of the defrauded companies.

Banks and public institutions do not request access to Internet or Mobile Banking applications, access to device screens, or the installation of applications for the purpose of processing refunds or verifying accounts.

The Romanian Banking Association recommends consulting the Online Safety platform, where guides and useful information on the main types of digital fraud and methods of prevention are available.

The #DreptulLaBanking campaign, launched by banks in Romania under the coordination of the Romanian Banking Association, aims to strengthen trust in the banking system, raise awareness of the role and mission of the banking sector in the economy, and protect users of banking products and services.