Fraudulent SMS messages about fines steal data from drivers, Czech police warn
Czech drivers are receiving fake SMS messages posing as police requests to pay for traffic violations. Police warn: do not click on links or enter personal information.
Fake SMS messages impersonating police targeted at drivers across the country
Drivers across the Czech Republic are receiving SMS messages asking them to pay alleged unpaid fines — most commonly for speeding violations. According to denik.cz, the messages are fraudulent: they do not come from the police, but from cybercriminals.
"Police never send requests to pay fines via SMS message," said police spokesman Tomáš Macura from the territorial office in Nymburk.
Psychological pressure and fake government websites
The messages work on the principle of time pressure. The attackers inform the recipient of an unpaid traffic offence that must be paid within three days. Each SMS includes a link to a website that closely resembles official government portals.
After clicking on the link, the website first requests personal information, then redirects the user to a fraudulent payment gateway. "When users enter this information, they give the fraudsters access to their money, which the cybercriminals immediately drain from the bank account," Macura added.
Police in the Central Bohemian and South Bohemian regions reported similar cases over the past month. Previously, cases were also reported in Vysočina and the Znojmo area.
What to do if you have entered your information
If someone has accidentally entered personal or banking information, police recommend acting without delay. "People must immediately contact their bank and request a card block. The entire matter must then be reported to the nearest police station," advised Macura. The sooner this is done, the greater the chance of limiting the damage.
South Bohemian police spokeswoman Lenka Krausová urges drivers unequivocally: "Do not click on unknown links and do not enter your personal information or internet banking credentials anywhere."
How police actually handle traffic violations
The standard procedure for handling traffic violations works in a completely different way. "Traffic violations are typically resolved on the spot or via official data mailboxes. Alternatively, they are sent by official letter to the recipient's home address," Macura clarified.
Citizens can verify their obligations to the state through the official Transport Portal or directly at the relevant police station.
Source: Google News CZ — Crime (cs)