Be Aware of Counterfeit Tax Statements - Identifying Deceitful Documents
Identifying Fake Tax Notices in Germany: A Guide to Prevent Phishing Scams
In the realm of tax returns, encountering demands from the Federal Central Tax Office for late fees is not uncommon. However, beware: criminals are currently circulating fake tax letters, posing as the Federal Central Tax Office and demanding late fees for supposedly late tax returns.
These fraudulent letters often contain several hundred euros in late fees, with a two-day payment deadline. To help you spot these fraudulent notices, the Tax Assistance Bayern (Lohi) offers the following tips:
- Inconsistencies: Although the letters may initially appear convincing, a closer look might reveal discrepancies. For instance, different dates on various pages or inconsistencies in sender details may suggest a fake notice.
- Impersonal Greeting: Tax letters usually begin with the recipient's name, but these scam letters often greet the recipient as "Dear Taxpayer." Remember, tax offices have access to your name and tax ID number and should use them in their communication.
- Unusual Responsibilities: Keep in mind that your local tax office (Finanzamt) is responsible for tax returns, not the Federal Central Tax Office. Therefore, if a letter claims to be from the Federal Central Tax Office, it may be a red flag.
- Foreign IBAN: No German authority maintains accounts abroad. If the account details on the letter start with "ES" for Spain, this could be a warning sign. A German IBAN would begin with "DE."
If you've checked the points above and still find no obvious inconsistencies, contact your local tax office directly to confirm if there is indeed a claim against you. You can find their number online or using your last tax notice.
According to official and expert sources, to identify fake tax notices and protect yourself against phishing scams related to tax returns, consider the following key points:
- Exercise caution with communication originating from suspected or unofficial sources.
- Be wary of threatening language and requests for immediate payments or sensitive information.
- Refrain from clicking links or opening attachments in unsolicited emails.
- Verify notices independently using official websites or direct contact.
- Keep informed about known scams and examples of fake notices.
- Protect personal information and report suspicious messages to the appropriate authorities.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can better distinguish real tax communications from fake ones and protect yourself against phishing scams.
- In the context of business and general-news, it's crucial to be aware of potential phishing scams, such as fake tax notices, especially in the realm of employment policy and finance.
- When it comes to crime-and-justice, be on the lookout for signs of fake tax notices, like inconsistent information, impersonal greetings, unusual responsibilities, and foreign IBANs, as these tactics are often used in phishing scams.
