Tips to protect yourself from fraud during the tax season

• The start of the tax return campaign marks an increase in digital fraud attempts, such as phishing, smishing and fraudulent calls.

With the start of the tax return period, there is a notable increase in digital fraud attempts, putting the security of thousands of people at risk. Cybercriminals have refined their methods and we may fall into digital traps such as phishing, fraudulent calls and smishing. They use messages and calls that appear to come from official entities to trick users and obtain their personal data. Faced with this scenario, it is essential to be vigilant and take preventive measures.

Imagine receiving an e-mail apparently from the Tax Agency with a domain such as aeatr.es instead of the legitimate aeat.es. If in doubt, it is advisable to check the official website directly in your browser, avoiding suspicious links or messages that may appear in your email or mobile phone, or by calling the official customer service number.

Another indication of fraud is the request for confidential banking information. Neither the Tax Agency nor any legitimate entity ever requests confidential, financial or personal information via e-mail or SMS.

Sense of urgency

These scams often create a sense of urgency. Messages warning about outstanding debts, refunds or account suspensions are intended to confuse recipients and provoke a hasty reaction. It is vital to verify the authenticity of any notification through the institutions' formal channels before providing any personal information.

Fraudulent messages may also contain attachments and often include links as bait for their scam.  It is recommended not to open any suspicious links or documents. The Tax Agency does not send attachments with billing issues or request information via links.

Fraudulent calls

Another tactic that has gained traction is scam phone calls. Criminals mask their real numbers, making them look legitimate, and convince people to reveal confidential information through threats or false promises. No legitimate entity solicits personal or financial data over the phone. 

CaixaBank, in the security section of its website, provides some recommendations to help to avoid becoming a victim of this fraud. Acting prudently can prevent you from being scammed. If at any time you detect suspicious transactions on your account or you have provided your details in what you believe to be a fraud campaign, contact your branch manager immediately or call the 24-hour customer service line (93 887 25 25 / 900 40 40 90) or, if you are abroad, call +34 938 87 25 25.