The Federal Ministry of Finance warns of online scams The Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF) is warning of fraud attempts by online fraudsters, which are carried out via various communication channels such as email, text messages, telephone calls and social media.

Beware of phishing!

Current warnings

You can find detailed warnings about the latest scams on the independent information platform Watchlist Internet.

Important information about the latest phishing scam can be found here.

You can also use the smartphone app from Watchlist Internet to stay up to date.

The fraudulent messages sent by criminals to members of the public in the name of the Austrian tax authorities contain various pieces of information, such as:

  • upcoming tax refunds and reimbursements
  • outstanding debts and impending seizures
  • suspicious login attempts and necessary updates to FinanzOnline
  • required checks on additional obligations

The criminals pretend that these messages originate from official tax authorities, such as:

  • FinanzOnline
  • the Austrian Tax Office
  • the Austrian Customs Office
  • the Federal Ministry of Finance

They usually use fake websites modelled on FinanzOnline, which prompt users to enter personal data and payment details.

Advice

Information from the Austrian tax authorities is generally provided in the form of digitally signed notices and is delivered by post or via the FinanzOnline Databox. The Austrian tax authorities never ask citizens or business owners to provide personal data such as passwords, credit card details or bank account information.

Therefore, if you receive messages of this kind with similar content, it is highly likely to be an attempt at online fraud.

  • Under no circumstances should you follow the instructions contained therein!
  • Do not click on any links or files contained therein!
  • Under no circumstances should you disclose personal details such as passwords, credit card details or account information!
  • The BMF recommends deleting such messages immediately!
  • Be cautious and always question and verify the plausibility and authenticity of such messages and calls!
  • If in doubt, always check the official sender’s address or telephone number of the supposed organisation that sent the message or made the call, and ring them back!