INPS phishing SMS warning issued in Varese, Italy

The local police in Taino, Varese province warned residents about a wave of phishing SMS messages that appear to come from the Italian Institute of Social Security (INPS). The messages, sent under the sender name “INPSINFORMA,” claim to offer IRPEF tax refunds and direct recipients to click a link to complete a procedure.

Police stressed that INPS never uses SMS to request personal data, credentials, bank details, or to process tax credits. Recipients are advised not to open the links, not to provide any information, and to delete the messages. The authorities also pointed citizens to the INPS anti‑fraud guide for instructions on how to recognise and report such scams, urging particular caution for elderly individuals who may be more vulnerable.