Caution, fraud! This is how wrong beer competitions in Austria attract

Caution, fraud! This is how wrong beer competitions in Austria attract

In Austria, a fraudulent competition is currently in circulation that is spread via WhatsApp. Users are lured into the trap with the prospect of a "cool box full Stiegl beer". According to the information from 5min.at , the messages that the victims receive, often from acquaintances and are intended to reduce the distrust of the recipients.

The link contained in this messages leads to a professionally designed website on which users have to answer questions. Although the participants are supposed to win, they are forced to forward the link to many of their contacts. Android users have to install an app while iOS users are forwarded directly. The last step includes paying a processing fee of 2 euros and entering personal data. This procedure means that the victims unknowingly complete a paid subscription and reveal sensitive information.

signs of fraud

There are several signs that indicate the fake competition. These include:

• spelling error in the graphic;
• a suspicious, long link with confused letters and special characters;
• a missing imprint on the competition side;
• The request to pay a fee.

The fraudsters pursue the goal of stealing personal data from users and spreading them through social networks. As watchlist-internet.at , the criminals try to get beer over fake cooling boxes. The stitch-based stitch is particularly memorable because Austria has high per capita beer consumption.

those affected should definitely take measures to protect themselves. The police should be informed about the incident and it is recommended to block credit cards and contact the provider for the return booking. In addition, the account statements should be checked for suspicious debit and contradictions should be filed for any reminders, since there is no legal contract.

similar fraud stitches

This incident is not isolated. ndr pointing out that similar phishing actions also take place in Germany with known beer brands. Fraudsters often use fake emails that look like banks or online shops to move users to enter confidential data. These stitches can lead to unauthorized access to bank accounts or orders in the name of the victims.