Fraudulent fine notices in circulation: Be careful with emails from the Federal Motor Transport Authority
Cyber criminals are currently increasingly trying to steal a large sum of money via a phishing email in the name of the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA). As the consumer advice center warns, the fraudulent message demands payment of a fine of 158 euros for allegedly speeding. It also contains a download link to a PDF document that may contain malware. The date of the alleged violation is also given.
According to consumer protection agencies, however, the KBA does not issue fines for traffic violations and the authority itself denies such letters. In addition, there are clear warning signs that this is an attempt at fraud. Accordingly, the impersonal greeting ("Hello road user"), the dubious sender address, the included download link and the unprofessional design are all signs of phishing.
Those affected should under no circumstances open the attachments or links and instead move the email to the spam folder without opening it.
If you are unsure, you can also get further information on the official KBA website . There you will also find a sample of the phishing email. It also states: "Every fine procedure is also preceded by a hearing in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act (VwVfG) by the responsible authorities (road traffic authorities, etc.), which gives those involved in a procedure the opportunity to comment on the incident in question." The emails circulating therefore do not come from the KBA or any other official body.
Berliner-zeitung
