The National Highway Safety Authority (ANSR) has recently warned of a scam that involves emails that notify recipients about fake fines and include a payment link. These cases are phishing schemes, a technique used to obtain bank information and personal data on behalf of official entities.
ANSR clarifies that it does not send notifications of fines by email, so any communication of this kind must be considered fraudulent. Authentic notifications are always sent by physical mail through registered letter.
How does mockery work?
Phishing schemes use emails that mimic the identity of public institutions, presenting logos and formatting similar to officers. In the case of this scam, the victims receive an email that seems to be from ANSR, informing that they have an outstanding fine and must pay through a link included in the message.
If the user clicks on the link, it can be redirected to a fake website, where you will ask you to enter personal and banking data. In some cases, the site may also install malicious software on the victim’s device, compromising their digital safety.
The Judicial Police (PJ) has already issued alerts about similar fraud, recommending precaution when opening suspicious emails.
How to avoid falling into this scheme?
To avoid being a phishing victim, follow these recommendations:
1. Do not click suspicious links
If you receive an email informing you about a fine or another debt, do not click on the links or provide any information.
2. Check the sender of the email
Fraudulent emails may seem legitimate, but an attentive examination may reveal addresses of strange or slightly altered referrals. If the address does not correspond to the ANSR officer (@ANSR.PT), it is likely to be a scam.
3. Do not provide personal or banking data
No legitimate public or private entity requests bank information or personal data by email. If you receive a request for this kind, be suspicious immediately.
4. Confirm directly with ANSR
If you have questions about a fine or fine, contact ANSR directly through the official channels. You can consult information on the entity’s official portal or call contacts available on the National Highway Safety Authority website.
5. Denounce the fraudulent email
If you receive a suspicious message, you may report it to the authorities, namely to the Judicial Police or the National Cyberrsecurity Center. These organisms are prepared to analyze and combat online fraud.
Conclusion
With increasing online fraud, it is essential that users are aware of phishing schemes, especially when involving payments and bank details. In the case of fines notifications, it reinforces that all official communications are sent by registered mail and never by email.
To protect yourself, you should always check the sender of messages, avoid clicking suspicious links and, if in doubt, directly contact the responsible entity. Digital security begins with prevention and information.
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