Migrants in Slovenia have new targets, confused experts urge caution

Authorities in Slovenia have issued warnings to beekeepers and beekeeping associations after reports emerged of suspicious phone calls linked to alleged changes in the national beekeeping registry. The Agency for Safe Food, Veterinary Services and Plant Protection (UVHVVR) has alerted beekeepers and their organizations to these incidents, emphasizing the need for caution following claims of unauthorized activity involving sensitive data. The agency confirmed that it does not conduct such activities and clarified that while it maintains the official registry of apiaries, beekeepers, and associations under current legislation, it does not notify them of supposed changes in this manner. According to UVHVVR, there is no basis for the claims made during the phone calls, which reportedly asked for information including tax numbers, email addresses, and other personal details. These calls were described as potentially misleading or fraudulent in nature. A representative of one beekeeping association received a call in which the caller inquired about the association’s data, including its tax number and electronic address. The caller also mentioned changes in the beekeeping registry, leading to a presumed cost of 288 euros for the association. However, UVHVVR stated that it does not engage in telephone communications with beekeepers or their associations regarding such matters. Furthermore, the agency noted that it is unclear what the claimed change in the registry would mean, nor is there any indication that the Ministry of Agriculture engages in similar activities. The situation has raised concerns among experts, who are unsure whether the calls represent genuine administrative procedures or attempts to obtain private information. UVHVVR emphasized that it is not aware of any legitimate reason for the alleged changes in the registry and urged beekeepers and associations to remain vigilant. They advised against providing personal or financial information unless verified through official channels. The incident highlights potential vulnerabilities in how sensitive data is handled within agricultural sectors. While the exact origin of the calls remains unknown, the agency has called for increased awareness and caution among beekeepers and their representatives. It reiterated that any communication related to the beekeeping registry should be directed through formal and recognized procedures. UVHVVR has also stressed that it will continue monitoring the situation and working closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure transparency and security in all dealings concerning the beekeeping sector. Beekeepers are encouraged to report any suspicious activity directly to the agency for further investigation. In response to the growing concern, local beekeeping associations have begun advising their members to verify the legitimacy of any communication they receive. Some have even initiated internal checks to ensure that no unauthorized access to their data has occurred. Meanwhile, officials from UVHVVR are reviewing existing protocols to prevent future instances of misinformation or fraud targeting the beekeeping community. The issue underscores the importance of maintaining secure and reliable communication channels in agricultural management systems. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging all beekeepers and associated entities to stay informed and cautious, ensuring that any changes to the registry are officially documented and communicated through proper channels.