– It is a copy of the tax authority’s website, but on a different domain, says Björn Appelgren, public education officer at the Internet Foundation.
Since Monday, the income declaration has been sent to everyone who uses a digital mailbox. But many have already received tips about the tax – from fraudsters.
“Your tax refund has been approved. To complete the process and receive your tax refund, you must verify your banking information and confirm your identity through our secure system,” reads one scam seen by the Internet Foundation.
– There have been fraudulent emails like this regarding refunds since December, says Björn Appelgren.
Some emails ask the recipient to scan a QR code.
– This is a slightly newer variant that often leads to a website that looks exactly like the tax authority’s. There is a form on the website where you must enter your payment card details. With this information, the fraudsters can hijack your card and use it.
It also happens that scammers call.
– A common occurrence in phone scams is an attempt to trick you into using your bank ID incorrectly so that your accounts can be emptied, says Appelgren.
Sometimes they try to install a virus program. This is often done via email with an attached file that may say, for example, “Explanation Notice” or “Bug Report Statement.”
Something may go wrong when you download the file.
– Then infect your computer with some form of spyware that can operate in the background and steal valuable information from us.
The Internet Foundation’s tip to avoid scams is to never click on links or scan QR codes in messages from senders impersonating the Swedish Tax Authority. You should also not open or download attached files.
– The Swedish Tax Agency will never contact you by email or SMS if you need to provide payment card details. The declaration and notification of this will be made via your digital mailbox or by physical mail.
Another tip is to contact the authorities yourself if you are unsure.
– You search for a contact method yourself or register via their e-service.
