Smishing Attack in the Name of the BMF: How to Recognize the Fake Messages

The Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF) warns of a new wave of fraudulent messages currently being spread in the name of Austrian tax authorities via SMS and WhatsApp. Criminals pose as FinanzOnline or other official bodies and attempt to obtain sensitive data with fake messages. Security authorities speak of a sophisticated form of so-called "smishing" – phishing via short message services.

Fake Messages with Alleged ID Expiration Warning

According to the BMF, the perpetrators claim in the fake messages, among other things, that the FinanzOnline ID is expiring and needs to be renewed. The included links lead to deceptively real-looking but fake websites, where personal data such as passwords, credit card details, or bank account information are requested.

The BMF emphasizes that it never requests the entry of sensitive data via SMS, WhatsApp, or Messenger. Official communications are made exclusively by mail or through the Databox in the FinanzOnline system.

Warning of Further Fraud Schemes

In addition to ID expiration warnings, internet fraudsters also use other scenarios, including:

The Ministry of Finance calls for increased vigilance and provides the following recommendations:

Professional Deception with Real Logos and Senders

The fraudsters are increasingly acting professionally: The messages use official logos, real sender names, or imitate the writing style of authorities. They pose as the BMF, the Austrian Tax Office, the Customs Office, or directly as FinanzOnline.

The BMF strongly warns: If you have doubts about a message, you should inform yourself directly through official channels and under no circumstances respond.

(Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.