Beware of New Government Website Scam

Cybercriminals have adopted a sophisticated new tactic, posing as official government websites to deceive people into divulging personal and financial information. According to Karolina Kowalska from CyberRescue, these scammers are using RCS messages—advanced mobile communication standards—to send text messages that appear legitimate but contain links to fake government websites.

These messages typically claim that personal data must be updated immediately, threatening penalties for non-compliance. Unwitting recipients are directed to click on a link that redirects them to a meticulously crafted fake website, designed to resemble the official government portal.

Once on the fake site, users are prompted to enter sensitive information such as personal details and payment card data. If this information is provided, cybercriminals can exploit it to clear bank accounts or even secure loans in the victim’s name, leaving them financially compromised.

To avoid falling victim to such scams, experts advise extreme caution. Users should treat any request to update personal data with suspicion, especially if it comes through unsolicited messages. It’s crucial not to click on links in suspicious messages or enter personal information on unfamiliar websites.

If you receive such messages, it’s recommended to block the sender’s phone number to prevent further contact attempts. By remaining vigilant and proactive, individuals can protect themselves against these increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.