Online safety should be a priority for everyone. Fraud and deception are common and can reach you through SMS or email on any mobile device. Phishing is one of the most warned risks by official institutions and remains a persistent threat that people encounter daily.
Phishing is a deceptive technique used to coax someone into revealing personal or confidential data, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or bank details. The attacker pretends to be a legitimate company or a government agency to lure victims into sharing sensitive information.
Recent scams include fake messages from tax authorities claiming a payment or refund is available. The bait often involves a link that promises quick money or access to a supposed benefit. The goal is to provoke urgency and prompt hurried actions without proper verification.
SEPE warning
Because these fraud attempts continue to evolve, the Public State Employment Service (SEPE) urges all workers to stay vigilant. Many scams are delivered by email, but they can also appear via SMS, social networks, instant messaging apps, or phone calls. The aim is to steal confidential information and gain access to credentials.
SEPE advises readers to be alert if a warning arrives by email, SMS, or messaging apps:
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Requests that an action be taken immediately or without delay.
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Offers of refunds or payments that seem unusual or too good to be true.
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Messages with spelling or grammar mistakes or odd phrasing.
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Requests to open an attached file, visit a site, or make a payment.
This is the letter SEPE sent to the workers in ERTE.
You should treat such communications with caution. SEPE will never ask for personal or bank details via SMS, email, or messaging apps. If such messages arrive, delete them and avoid clicking links or downloading attachments.
[Citations: SEPE security guidance for online fraud prevention]