Monaco’s Sûreté Publique has issued a public warning following a spate of attempted scams in which fraudsters impersonate high-level figures of the Principality. Using official-looking documents and spoofed calls, the frauds are designed to trick recipients—often company leaders or personal associates—into transferring money abroad.

According to the Sûreté Publique, these scams have grown increasingly sophisticated. Impostors are using electronic messages, video calls on platforms like WhatsApp, and forged documentation featuring official Monaco letterheads and apparently authentic signatures. In some cases, fraudulent calls appear to come directly from the telephone numbers of government agencies. The scams often revolve around fabricated financial emergencies, pressuring recipients into sending funds to foreign bank accounts.

A call for heightened vigilance

The public is urged to remain highly cautious and sceptical when receiving any unexpected or unusual communication of this nature. The police recommend that individuals verify all requests through direct, trustworthy channels and avoid acting on messages or calls that seem urgent or out of character. Anyone approached in this manner should contact Monaco’s Judicial Police Division immediately on +377 93 15 30 15 or via email at csco@gouv.mc.

Protecting the community from digital deception

These scams represent a concerning evolution in cyber-enabled fraud, targeting Monaco’s close-knit and high-profile community. Authorities say they are actively monitoring the situation and have reiterated their commitment to keeping residents informed and protected. As ever, vigilance remains the first line of defence against such threats.

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Photo credit: Cassandra Tanti, Monaco Life