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There has been a recent increase in scam attempts via various communication channels. Be careful if you receive such a text message.
Unfortunately, fraud attempts via messenger services are no longer a rarity these days. On the contrary, the methods used to obtain Austrians’ data are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Time and again, 5-Minuten readers report fraudulent messages asking them to click on a link.
Fraudulent text messages are circulating in Austria
Whether it’s phone calls, text messages, or emails, fraudsters will stop at nothing and have no qualms about trying to extract data. Recently, a reader received a message that was supposedly sent by the Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF). It stated that his registration for the Finanz-Online ID would soon expire. In addition, a link was attached that already looked suspicious, with the request to “renew here.”
BMF warns of fraudulent text messages
“The Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF) is currently warning of an increasing number of fake text messages being sent to citizens in the name of the BMF,” according to the website. You should therefore pay particular attention to the link that is sent with the message. The correct URL for FinanzOnline is: https://finanzonline.bmf.gv.at/fon/.
Links lead to fake websites
The links contained in fraudulent text messages usually lead to fake websites in the style of FinanzOnline. Here, users are asked to enter sensitive data and payment information. “The BMF emphasizes that this is an attempt at internet fraud and that the messages sent and the websites linked to are fake,” the information continues. Information from the BMF is always provided in the form of notices and is delivered by mail or to the FinanzOnline Databox. “The BMF never asks citizens to provide personal data such as passwords, credit card details, or account information.”
Have you received a fraudulent text message? Here is what the BMF advises:
Do not follow the instructions contained in the message under any circumstances!
Please do not click on any links or files contained in it!
Under no circumstances should you disclose personal data such as passwords, credit card details, or account information!
The BMF recommends deleting such text messages and emails immediately!
BMF provides information about fraud attempts in a folder
Further information on the scammers’ tricks, the characteristics of fraud attempts, and necessary security measures can be found in the BMF folder “Beware of fraud! Don’t give internet scammers a chance.” The folder is available for download on the BMF website and can be picked up at all tax offices.
- source: 5minutes.at/picture: pixabay.com
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