Fraud Alert

Protecting yourself from fraudulent communications

Important Notice

The Global Digital Economy Forum (GDEF) has become aware that individuals and entities may attempt to impersonate the Forum or its representatives for fraudulent purposes. This page provides guidance on how to identify and report such activity.

Common Types of Fraud

Fraudulent communications may take the following forms:

  • Fake job offers: Unsolicited offers of employment or consultancy positions at GDEF, often requesting personal information or payment of fees. GDEF never charges fees in connection with employment applications.
  • Fake event invitations: Invitations to conferences or events falsely presented as being organised by or affiliated with GDEF, often requiring registration fees or personal data.
  • Impersonation of representatives: Communications from individuals falsely claiming to be GDEF officials, Council Members, or staff, requesting financial transactions, partnerships, or sensitive information.
  • Fraudulent partnership proposals: Proposals soliciting financial contributions, sponsorships, or business arrangements under the pretence of GDEF affiliation.
  • Phishing emails: Emails designed to appear as if they originate from GDEF, requesting you to click links or provide credentials.

How to Verify Communications

To determine whether a communication is genuinely from GDEF:

  • All official GDEF communications are sent from email addresses ending in @gdeforum.org
  • GDEF never solicits payments, fees, or financial contributions via unsolicited email
  • GDEF never requests personal banking information, passwords, or identification documents via email
  • Official events and publications are listed on our website at gdeforum.org
  • If in doubt, contact us directly at [email protected] to verify the legitimacy of any communication

What to Do If You Suspect Fraud

If you receive a suspicious communication purporting to be from GDEF:

  1. Do not respond to the communication or click any links
  2. Do not send any money, personal information, or documents
  3. Forward the suspicious communication to [email protected]
  4. Report the incident to your local law enforcement or cybercrime authority

Our Disclaimer

The Global Digital Economy Forum accepts no responsibility or liability for any loss, damage, or inconvenience caused as a result of reliance on information or communications that are issued by parties fraudulently claiming affiliation with the Forum. We are not responsible for the activities of any individual or entity falsely using the GDEF name, logo, or identity.