Attention: Fraudsters disguise themselves as debt collectors - warning for Aue-Bad Schlema!

Attention: Fraudsters disguise themselves as debt collectors - warning for Aue-Bad Schlema!

A new fraud case is currently causing a stir in Aue-Bad Schlema. A supposed debt collection company sends fake emails that come from an address that looks suspiciously like an official business: rechnung@universum-service.de. These emails contain invoices and reminders that give the impression that they were sent on behalf of city authorities. However, according to the city administration, there is a strong warning against reacting to these messages. Because the emails are not from the real one Universum Inkasso GmbH, but from fraudsters who engage in identity theft.

In fact, “UNIVERSUM Inkasso GmbH” exists; However, your official contact field is the email address office@universum-inkasso.de. The false senders give the impression that they are acting on behalf of the “Aue Stadt tax office”, which, however, does not exist. The responsible tax office is in Schwarzenberg, and the city administration itself does not need collection agencies for public debts such as taxes. Taxpayers should therefore pay attention and not allow themselves to be put under pressure by these fraudulent emails.

Dangers of identity theft

Cyber ​​criminals are always active and use different methods to gain unauthorized access to personal data. According to that Federal Office for Information Security (BSI), phishing emails or data leaks are often used. In addition to accessing existing accounts, these scammers can also create new accounts in the names of their victims, causing financial loss.

The consequences of such identity theft are often devastating: In addition to financial damage, the good reputation of those affected can also suffer, and in the worst case, there is a risk of criminal consequences. Therefore, it is important to take preventive measures. This includes using strong passwords, setting up two-factor authentication, and careful use of public Wi-Fi networks. The BSI also advises checking emails and links carefully before clicking to avoid falling into the fraud trap.

Consumer protection measures

So what can you do to protect yourself and your data? Here are some simple but effective measures:

• Verwenden Sie starke Passwörter und einen Passwort-Manager.
• Aktivieren Sie die Zwei-Faktor-Authentifizierung.
• Seien Sie vorsichtig mit den persönlichen Informationen, die Sie online teilen.
• Halten Sie Ihre Software und Betriebssysteme stets auf dem neuesten Stand.
• Nutzen Sie unterschiedliche E-Mail-Adressen für verschiedene Zwecke.

In the event of digital identity theft, you need to act quickly. The BSI offers helpful instructions and support for those affected in order to take the right steps.

Given these warnings, it's better to be safe than sorry. If you find anything suspicious, do not hesitate to contact the appropriate authorities. Protect yourself and your data – it’s in your hands!