EL.AS: Beware of SMS – scam for alleged tax refund – What to do if you receive it

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These messages appear highly believable – Once the recipient of the message fills in the requested information, the perpetrators either gain unauthorized access to the victim’s accounts, or conduct unauthorized electronic transactions

The headquarters of ELAS draws the attention of the citizens, as cases of attempted interception of personal data have recently been reported, through smishing.

Specifically, via messages (sms)which are sent en masse to citizens, with the sender appearing to be a government organization, unknown actors attempt to steal personal data by pretending to be pending tax matters (tax refund).

The messages contain links, which lead to websites where the user is asked to provide their data, such as sensitive private information, passwords, bank account or bank card.

Then, once the recipient of the message fills in the requested information, the perpetrators use it either to gain unauthorized access to the victim’s accounts, or to make unauthorized online transactions using the stolen card details.

What to do if you receive it

ELAS points out that these messages require great attention, as they appear extremely plausible, and the users who receive them are invited to:

  • not to select the proposed links ( links ),
  • not reply to messages,
  • not to register or send personal data and personal information, such as passwords, card numbers, etc., as in no case are these messages real.

It is recalled that most of the tips to avoid defrauding citizens are posted on the website of the Hellenic Police (www.hellenicpolice.gr), in the “Citizen’s Guide/Useful tips” section, while additional information and tips on incidents of electronic fraud are available on the Directorate’s website Electronic Crime Prosecution www.cyberalert.gr.

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