More than 690,000 Tatarstan residents set up self-imposed credit restrictions to protect against scammers
On March 18, Deputy Minister of Digitalization of Tatarstan Albert Yakovlev participated in a press conference, where he informed about the methods scammers use to deceive citizens and how to protect oneself from them.
Due to joint efforts with federal authorities and the implementation of modern technologies in the republic, the number of scam calls is decreasing. In the first two months of 2026, scammers stole 25% less money than at the beginning of last year. A key role in enhancing digital security has been played by the mass call labeling system. This tool allows for quick identification of potential scammers and spam calls. 92% of surveyed citizens appreciated this innovation.
Now, fraudsters are looking for ways to have citizens contact them themselves, through email invites, SMS, fake notifications about hacked accounts, fines, the need to replace bank cards, etc. Yakovlev advises to be especially vigilant when receiving calls from scammers pretending to be managers or intercom company representatives.
Here are some additional ways to protect yourself from scammers:
Self-imposed credit restrictions on the State Services Portal (Gosuslugi).
Users can fully or partially restrict the ability to receive loans. More than 643,000 Tatarstan residents have set up such restrictions through the Portal and 47,000 people via Multifunctional Centre branches. Self-imposed restrictions help prevent scammers from coercing citizens into taking out loans by deception.
Self-imposed restriction on SIM card issuance.
When issuing a new SIM card, the operator must make a request through a unified system linked to the Portal (Gosuslugi) account. If a user has set up a self-imposed restriction, it becomes impossible to conclude new mobile service agreements.
Authorization on Gosuslugi via Max.
Users can access the portal through the national messenger instead of confirming login via SMS.
Call restrictions in Max.
The "Safe Mode" in the messenger allows you to receive calls only from people in your contacts and invites only from those you have already communicated with. The mode also restricts the profile from appearing in searches for strangers.
"The main advantage of the Max messenger is the presence of technical support, where you can report suspicious accounts or scam schemes and receive prompt feedback. This capability is not available in foreign messengers," Yakovlev said.