Israel Scams: Online, Investment & Impersonation Fraud Guide
Common scams in Israel and how to report them to the CERT-IL hotline 119, the Consumer Protection Authority, and your bank.
Emergency number: 100 (police), 112 (emergency) — verify on official sources.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Israel faces a wide range of online fraud including phishing targeting bank and government credentials, investment and crypto scams, and impersonation of government agencies. The Israel National Cyber Directorate (INCD) operates a free 24/7 CERT-IL hotline on 119 that citizens can call to report cyber incidents and receive initial guidance. Consumer fraud can be reported to the Consumer Protection and Fair Trade Authority via gov.il. The Israeli Police Cyber Crime Unit (operating under Lahav 433) handles criminal cybercrime matters. Reporting to your bank quickly after any suspected fraud is the most important first step.
Common scams
- Phishing and smishing impersonating Israeli banks or government portals
- Investment and crypto fraud
- Government agency impersonation
- Tech support and remote-access scams
Tourist-specific scams
- Overcharging unofficial taxis near tourist sites
- Fake tour operator and ticket scams
Online shopping scams
- Phishing targeting bank login credentials
- Fake online shopping sites
- Account takeover via credential-harvesting links
Job scams
- Task scams via messaging apps
- Fake job offers requiring upfront registration fees
Romance scams
- Dating-app romance and cryptocurrency investment grooming
Investment scams
- Fake trading platforms and unlicensed broker firms
- Crypto and 'AI bot' investment schemes
How to report a scam here
- Contact your bank immediately if money was transferred
- Call CERT-IL on 119 (free, 24/7) or email [email protected] to report cyber incidents
- Report consumer fraud to the Consumer Protection and Fair Trade Authority at gov.il
- Report criminal matters to the Israeli Police Cyber Crime Unit
Local reporting & protection links
- Cybercrime reporting
- Consumer protection
- Police
- CERT-IL hotline — Dial 119 (free, 24/7) to report cyber incidents to the Israel National Cyber Directorate
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Bank & payment guidance
Contact your bank immediately using the number on your card. Israeli banks have fraud-response teams that can attempt to freeze or recall transfers most effectively in the first few hours. No legitimate government agency or bank will ask for your full card number or one-time password by phone or text.
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot all messages, profiles, websites and payment pages
- Save transaction references, account numbers and crypto wallet addresses
- Keep emails with full headers where possible
- Note dates, times, names and phone numbers used
Frequently asked questions
What is the CERT-IL 119 hotline?
It is a free 24/7 cybersecurity incident hotline operated by the Israel National Cyber Directorate (INCD). Citizens and businesses can call 119 to report cyber attacks, phishing, and other incidents and receive initial guidance from cybersecurity specialists.
Where do I report investment fraud in Israel?
Report investment scams to the Israel Securities Authority (ISA) as well as to the Israeli Police Cyber Crime Unit. For consumer protection issues, contact the Consumer Protection and Fair Trade Authority via gov.il.
Are government impersonation scams common in Israel?
Yes. Fraudsters impersonate Israeli government agencies, tax authorities, and police to pressure victims into making payments or handing over credentials. Genuine government agencies contact citizens by formal letter and do not demand immediate payment by phone or text.
Sources
- National police and cybercrime portals (verify on official sites)
- FTC / Action Fraud / Scamwatch consumer guidance