The false email states that due to the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government has decided that you will receive a special tax return allowance of EUR 279.99. All you have to do is visit the website!
But be careful: this is a fake!
The email as text:
Dear Sir/Madam,
This service notice contains essential information intended solely for you.
to grant
you a special allowance of €279.99 Visit our website for more information on how to apply for a refund: bundesregierung.de/rückweisung-2022
We hope to have provided you with sufficient information and wish you a pleasant day.
Sincerely,
Lotte Hofmann
Federal Government
With the intention of fraudulently, the senders pretend to be employees of the representation of the German Federal Government or the European Commission in Germany .
Don't open these emails!
The emails do not come from the German federal government or the European Commission. It is an attempt by malicious actors to obtain sensitive data.
How to recognize phishing emails
Some characteristics that indicate a fraud attempt:
- an impersonal salutation: “Dear Ms./Mr. or customer”
- The text of the email indicates an urgent need for action, such as: “If you do not update your data immediately, it will be irretrievably lost.” Or: “Pay off your debts immediately.”
- Threats are used: “Unfortunately, if you don’t do this, we will have to block your account.”
- You will be asked to enter confidential information such as the PIN for your online banking access or a credit card number.
- The email contains links or forms.
- The email appears to come from a well-known person or organization, but the sender's request seems unusual.
You can find more information on the website of the Federal Office for Security and Information Technology (BSI)
Just a few weeks ago we reported on a false SMS from the Federal Ministry of Finance that led to a multi-bank trap. ( HERE )
Notes:
1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )