Police Warn Public Over Tax Refund SMS Scam

In recent days, the Police Force has received a substantial number of reports from individuals who have fallen victim to fraudulent SMS messages, resulting in money being stolen from their bank accounts.

The messages are being sent in the name of the Malta Tax and Customs Administration (MTCA) and falsely claim that recipients are entitled to a tax refund, prompting them to click on a link.

Once the link is opened, victims are directed to a fake website designed to resemble the official MTCA website and are asked to enter their credit card details in order to receive the supposed refund.

However, by providing this information, victims unknowingly give fraudsters access to their bank accounts, allowing them to steal varying amounts of money.

The Police are once again urging the public never to provide personal or banking details in response to these types of messages.

Anyone who is unsure about the authenticity of a message should always verify it by contacting the organisation that is claimed to have sent it through its official channels.

#MaltaDaily