Beware of fraudulent emails!

We have previously reported on scam letters sent when registering a trade and ‘saved’ more than one taxpayer, or at least their wallet and nerves. But a new and more sophisticated wave of messages has arrived, targeting taxpayers to obtain sensitive personal and banking details.

What does a fraudulent email look like?

Very official, which is why it works.

As well as an official appearance, the emails often contain information about the taxpayer that can be found in public registers. They frequently tell you about a supposed tax overpayment and ask you to click a link, where you are requested to enter banking details to receive the refund. You enter your banking details and, unfortunately, you have been caught.

Have you received an email from the tax office and have nagging doubts about whether it is genuine?

Here is how you can check its authenticity:

  • the sender’s email address ends with the official domain: @fs.gov.cz,
  • call the tax office listed in the email footer and ask to speak to the person who signed the email,
  • sign in to DIS+ and check whether you actually have an overpayment on any tax,
  • and, best of all, forward the email to your accountant. ☺️

Authorities do not normally send requests for sensitive details by email with links to external forms. If something does not seem right or you are unsure, it is always better not to fill anything in and to discuss the situation first – with your accountant, tax adviser or the tax office directly. Caution definitely pays off here.

How can you recognise legitimate communications from the Financial Administration?
  • The Financial Administration does not send links to websites by email or SMS.
  • It does not use automated voice calls to inform people of overpayments or arrears.
  • It never requests sensitive personal or banking details by email or SMS.
How can you protect yourself?

The Financial Administration recommends the following measures:

  • Do not respond to suspicious emails or text messages that appear to come from the Financial Administration.
  • Do not click any links and do not open attachments in these messages.
  • Check the sender – official Financial Administration email addresses end with the domain @fs.gov.cz.
  • Ignore automated voice calls claiming to be from the Financial Administration.
  • Verify the information directly with your tax authority or through the Financial Administration’s official communication channels




 


In the world of tax, where a new trap in the form of a fraudulent email lurks around every corner, it is important to have a reliable guide. At our accounting firm, we know the financial jungle can be treacherous – whether it involves phishing attacks, legislative changes or the everyday pitfalls of tax obligations. With us, you will not be taken in: we follow official warnings, monitor changes and help you distinguish what is true from a deceptive vine. Whenever you are unsure, feel free to contact us. We are at home in this jungle. 🌴