A360
Key Takeaways✦ Atlas AI
01
Unused bank accounts are frequently exploited by fraudsters for IBAN-related scams.
02
Individuals who allow others to use their IBANs risk prosecution for serious crimes like aggravated fraud and money laundering.
03
Even without direct intent, account holders can be held liable if they knew or should have known their account would be used for illegal activities.
04
Closing dormant accounts and reporting suspicious activity are crucial steps to prevent becoming a victim or accomplice in financial fraud.
Atlas AI
KIRKLARELI – Professor Dr. Seçkin Yavuzdoğan, Head of the Public Law Department at Kırklareli University's Faculty of Law, issued a critical warning on March 12, 2026: unused bank accounts should be closed to mitigate the growing threat of IBAN fraud. This advice comes amidst a surge in cases involving the rental of IBANs for illicit activities.
Professor Yavuzdoğan explained that fraudsters often lure individuals with promises of short-term account usage, inadvertently turning them into both victims and potential perpetrators. " He further elaborated that even without direct intent to defraud, account holders can be convicted if they knew or should have foreseen that their account would be used for fraudulent purposes, especially in cases involving cybercrime.
This underscores the severe legal consequences for those who negligently or knowingly facilitate such schemes. To protect themselves, citizens are urged not to share personal data or banking information with anyone. In suspicious situations, Professor Yavuzdoğan advises immediate contact with the bank to block the account and filing a criminal complaint with the prosecutor's office.
Closing unused accounts is presented as a crucial preventative measure, as these dormant accounts are frequently exploited in criminal operations.
