How to protect yourself from current fraud: Cybercriminals spread malware via YouTube, send fake Elster emails and lure people with fake Kaufland emails and AliExpress profits.

How to protect yourself from current fraud: Cybercriminals spread malware via YouTube, send fake Elster emails and lure people with fake Kaufland emails and AliExpress profits.

According to a report by www.t-online.de, there are currently increasing attempts at fraud through phishing and smishing emails. Cybercriminals use digital channels to obtain sensitive data, credit card and account information. A current scam involves sending fake emails in the name of the German tax processing software Elster, which simulate an alleged remaining tax amount from 2022. Recipients are asked to fill out an attached form, but it contains a dangerous link that is unrelated to the platform. Experts are also warning of a new scam in which fake Kaufland emails are sent with the prospect of an iPhone 15 Pro in order to obtain personal information and credit card details. The online shop AliExpress is also affected by fake emails that lure consumers with an alleged “mystery box”, but can result in the loss of data or identity theft.

These increasing fraud attempts not only impact consumers, but also the financial market. Stolen credit card details and bank account access details can result in financial losses, both for the individuals affected and for banks and financial service providers. In addition, such cases of fraud lead to a loss of trust in digital payment methods and financial services, which can have a long-term impact on customer behavior and the use of digital financial products.

It is therefore advisable that consumers are sensitized and educated on how they can protect themselves from such fraud attempts. At the same time, banks and financial institutions need to strengthen their security measures to minimize the risk of fraud and maintain customer trust in digital financial services.