Poles lose on average PLN 1,837. On stupidity
There is a lot of talk about online fraud and how to avoid it. We raise this topic many times ourselves. Banks and CERT also publish warnings. Despite this, Poles are still being fooled. They lose on average PLN 1,837.20, according to NBP data.
Poles allow themselves to be deceived
The National Bank of Poland published data on fraudulent non-cash transactions in the third quarter of 2025. They are not very optimistic. Not only their number has increased, but also their value.
According to the National Bank of Poland, in the third quarter of 2025 there were over 108,000. fraudulent transactions using cashless payment instruments. This category includes payment cards, transfer orders and direct debits. This is an increase of 4.4%. compared to the previous quarter.
At the same time, the total amount for which Poles were deceived also increased. It amounted to PLN 199.6 million (in just 3 months!). This, in turn, is an increase of 1.2%. compared to the second quarter of last year. The average amount of each such fraudulent transaction is PLN 1,837.20. Although there is an improvement in this field, because it is lower by PLN 57.70. However, this is little consolation.
How to defend yourself?
How to defend yourself against such frauds? There are a few simple rules to follow. These apply not only to fraudulent transactions, but to online fraud in general:
- Never provide logins, passwords, SMS codes, card details or document scans in response to an e-mail, text message or telephone – banks, police or offices never ask for it through such channels.
- Always use strong and unique passwords for different websites and enable two-factor login (2FA) where possible.
- Follow the principle of limited trust: do not click on suspicious links, do not open unexpected attachments, do not log in to the bank from the link in the message – enter the address manually.
- Check the credibility of websites and online stores (https certificate, opinions, company contact details) and avoid very “bargain” offers that require a quick decision.
- Regularly update your system, browser and applications, and use an antivirus and firewall, because security patches protect against new attacks.
- Don’t log in to banking or other sensitive services over public Wi-Fi; use a trusted network or VPN.
- Be alert to time pressure and playing on emotions – fraudsters often threaten consequences or promise quick profits; stop, verify the situation at the source through another channel.
- Regularly monitor your accounts (bank, email, social media) and set notifications; In the event of suspicious operations, immediately contact the bank and report the matter to the police or CERT Polska
