Attention fraud: fake e-bills cost over 54,000 euros!
Attention fraud: fake e-bills cost over 54,000 euros!
Lately, numerous consumers in Cologne have reported a worrying fraud in which fake invoices are in circulation. This stitch could cause potential damage of over 54,000 euros, such as chip reported. In this context, the "Swabian" warns of manipulative e-bills that are provided with false account numbers. This type of fraud also has direct consequences for smaller companies that often do not have resources for comprehensive protection against cyber attacks.
As the IHK reports, there are several options for protecting companies and consumers. The introduction of e-bills as of January 1, 2025 should facilitate business transactions and reduce paper stuff, but also has new challenges. Fraudsters manipulate digital invoices, add false account details and use the carelessness to mislead customers.
How does the fraud stitch work?
One of the latest cases that is currently being negotiated before the Ravensburg district court shows an example of how devastating these stitches can be. A craft company had sent a legitimate invoice for 54,000 euros. However, the customer received a second, fake invoice with different account information. The amount was ultimately transferred to a false account that was confirmed by a Berlin bank. Unfortunately, only part of the money could be blocked after the transfer. The rest was already in an account in Africa, which further complicates the situation. The lawyer Achim Ziegler, who deals with the case, emphasizes that craft businesses have a special responsibility for violations of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) focus .
The damage is not just financial nature. The reputation of the company concerned is also at stake. It is still unclear who will pay for the losses because the craft company demands payment. Such incidents can lead to consumers losing trust in digital payment methods.
How can consumers protect themselves?
In view of these risks, consumers should thoroughly check their bills. Experts advise you to compare the information on invoices with those on offer and to compare the bank details with the account details on the company website. Unusual requirements should be clarified immediately by phone. If fraud is suspected, it is important to contact the biller, inform the police and, if necessary, to recover transfers. In addition, you should not open emails or attachments from unknown senders TrueCommerce .The IHK gives several recommendations to minimize the risk of fraud: Companies should not use general email addresses for invoice shipping and change passwords immediately in the event of suspicious activities. Regular checks of the email filter and a thorough system check are also advisable to identify potential weaknesses.
With this informed approach, both companies and consumers can increase their security in digital payment transactions and protect themselves from these manipulative fraud. Finally, a watchful eye often preserves from bad surprises.| Details | |
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| Ort | Wittenberg, Deutschland |
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