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Fake debt collection agency: The city of Linz is currently warning residents about phishing scams via email and text message. Police provide tips on how to protect yourself from online scams.
More and more Linz residents are currently receiving dubious emails claiming that they have an outstanding debt, usually for parking fines. The senders claim to be the debt collection agency “Coeo-Inkasso” and say they are acting on behalf of the city of Linz. They provide a link that supposedly allows the debt to be paid directly.
However, the city has made it clear that it has no connection whatsoever with the company in question – this is clearly an attempt at fraud. The fake payment requests are part of a large-scale phishing campaign.
“Such messages do not come from us. We do not send payment requests by email,” emphasizes the city. Genuine information is only sent by post – in the case of parking violations, for example, the parking ticket is placed directly on the car.
It is noteworthy that the fraudsters are also attempting to use text messages – so be vigilant if a supposed city message arrives on your cell phone.
The Upper Austria State Police Department warns urgently against phishing attacks. It gives clear advice: Do not open suspicious emails or text messages, especially if they ask you to make quick payments or provide personal information. Never click on unknown links or attachments—these could contain malware.
Look out for spelling mistakes, unusual sender addresses, and missing personal salutations. If in doubt, contact the real institution directly; never reply to the email. And very importantly, never disclose confidential information such as passwords or bank details online unless you are sure who you are communicating with.
- source: heute.at/picture: pixabay.com
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