The scam: Fake emails and websites
The fraudulent emails claim a refund. Recipients are asked to follow a link and enter their personal information. What is striking is the sender address “Finanz Online”, which gives the impression of legitimate communication.
Once clicked, these links lead to websites that are based on the design of Finanz Online and ask you to enter bank details and other personal information.
Contents of the emails from “Finanz Online”
The messages appear to come from “FinanzOnline” and are also signed with this wording. A refund of 749.42 euros is given as the reason for contacting us.
Subject: A new message is waiting for you.
From: FinanzOnlineDear relatives, our administrative records show that you are still entitled to a VAT refund. The amount to which you are entitled is not less than €749.42. We attach great importance to the careful processing of tax matters. To ensure a smooth refund, we ask you to enter your details via our secure online portal.
You can access this portal by simply doing the following: Access the secure online portal: Click here to access the portal We urge you to fill in the requested information completely and accurately so that the refund can be processed correctly.
We thank you for your cooperation and the trust you place in the tax office. Our goal is to process your tax matters efficiently and correctly.
Kind regards,
Director of Private and Commercial FinanzOnline
Subject: You have an unread message in your inbox
from: FinanzOnlineDear, We hereby remind you that you are still entitled to a tax refund. To receive this refund of 749.42 euros, you must confirm your current details via our secure online portal. Access to secure online portal Once the application is completed, the refund will be transferred to your account within 5 business days.
Kind regards, FinanzOnline
Statement from the BMF
The BMF makes it clear that these emails and websites are a form of internet fraud. The authority points out that official information is always transmitted in the form of notices by post or in the Finanz Online Databox. Requesting the transmission of personal data, in particular passwords, credit card details or account information, is not part of our communication practices.
Recommendations for action and prevention
The Federal Ministry of Finance strongly advises against opening links or attachments contained in such emails or disclosing personal data in any other way. Instead, such messages should be deleted immediately and, if suspected, the authorities should be informed.
Conclusion: Vigilance is the best protection
These fraud attempts show the importance of vigilance and critical handling of digital news. If in doubt, you should always contact the respective institution directly to check the authenticity of a message. It's important to stay informed and not be fooled by fraudulent emails.
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Source: derStandard.at
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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 )