HELSINKI FINLAND
Scam text messages in the “Junk” and “Blocked” folders of a text messaging app on a smartphone. LEHTIKUVA
Finnish Customs has issued a warning about a wave of fraudulent text messages being sent in its name, urging the public not to click on any links included in these communications.
The fake messages, which have become increasingly common since early April, falsely claim to invite recipients to interviews or interrogations. They then prompt the recipient to follow a link for further details.
Customs said that it has received inquiries from concerned members of the public almost daily since the beginning of the month. All of the messages have been confirmed as scams.
The agency stressed that it never sends SMS messages with links and does not use text messages to communicate about customs clearance, unpaid duties, or delivery notifications. According to Customs, notifications about parcel arrivals are sent by transport companies, not the agency.
Mika Parkkonen, Head of Communications at Finnish Customs, said that criminals continue to misuse the agency’s identity for phishing attempts.
“As a trusted authority, it is unfortunate that messages impersonating Customs are often used for scams,” Parkkonen said in a press release.
The public is advised to delete such messages immediately and avoid clicking on any links or responding. Anyone who suspects they may have fallen victim to fraud is encouraged to report the matter to the police.
HT
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