Czech Customs and regulators warn of surge in email and messaging scams

The Czech Customs Administration has issued a warning about a rise in fraudulent e‑mails that impersonate the agency and request payments for alleged customs duties and VAT. The messages direct recipients to purchase PaySafeCard vouchers and send the PIN codes to the scammers. Spokesperson Richard Zeman said, "Opět registrujeme zvýšený výskyt podvodných e‑mailů, jejichž prostřednictvím se pachatelé snaží vylákat od občanů peníze za údajné clo a DPH u zásilek ze třetích zemí." The agency stresses it never communicates payment requests via e‑mail links or gift‑card vouchers and advises the public not to click links or provide any PIN codes.

In a related case, a senior citizen from Přerov lost nearly one million Czech crowns after being deceived by a fraudster posing as "Peter" on WhatsApp. The victim installed malicious applications, gave the attacker remote control of his phone, and was instructed to transfer money from his bank account. The Czech National Bank has also warned citizens against unsolicited investment offers and urges vigilance against such scams.