Latvia Scams: Online, Investment & Phishing Fraud Guide
Common scams in Latvia and how to report them to the State Police, PTAC, and CERT.LV.
Emergency number: 110 (police), 112 (EU emergency) — verify on official sources.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Latvia has one of Europe's highest internet adoption rates and a thriving digital economy, which is accompanied by a notable volume of online fraud. Phishing targeting Latvian bank credentials, fake online shops, investment fraud, and parcel-delivery smishing are among the most commonly reported scams. The State Police (Valsts policija) accepts crime reports online at vp.gov.lv/en/how-report-police; the emergency number is 110. The Consumer Rights Protection Centre (PTAC) at ptac.gov.lv handles consumer complaints including fraudulent traders. CERT.LV is Latvia's national cybersecurity incident response centre for more complex cyber threats. Acting quickly to contact your bank is the most important first step after any financial fraud.
Common scams
- Phishing and smishing impersonating Latvian banks
- Parcel-delivery fee smishing impersonating postal or courier services
- Fake online shops and non-delivery fraud
- Investment and crypto platform scams
Tourist-specific scams
- Overcharging unofficial taxis in Riga Old Town
- Distraction theft and pickpocketing in busy tourist areas
- Ticket resale scams for concerts and major events
Online shopping scams
- Phishing targeting Latvian bank login credentials
- Fake e-commerce and marketplace fraud
- Crypto and 'AI trading' investment scams
Job scams
- Fake job offers requiring upfront registration or document fees
- Task scams via messaging apps
Romance scams
- Dating-app grooming leading to cryptocurrency investment requests
- Social media romance with escalating financial demands
Investment scams
- Unlicensed forex and crypto broker platforms
- Clone firm investment scams impersonating regulated Latvian financial institutions
How to report a scam here
- Contact your bank immediately if money was transferred
- Call the State Police on 110 or 112, or report online at vp.gov.lv/en/how-report-police
- Report cyber incidents to CERT.LV for technical cybersecurity assistance
- File consumer complaints with PTAC at ptac.gov.lv or call +371 67388645
Local reporting & protection links
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 official number on your card or app. Latvian banks can attempt to freeze fraudulent transfers most effectively in the first few hours after reporting.
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 PTAC in Latvia?
PTAC (Patērētāju tiesību aizsardzības centrs) is Latvia's Consumer Rights Protection Centre. It handles complaints about fraudulent traders, unsafe products, and unfair commercial practices. Complaints can be submitted online at ptac.gov.lv or by calling +371 67388645.
Sources
- National police and cybercrime portals (verify on official sites)
- FTC / Action Fraud / Scamwatch consumer guidance