Italian Police warn of phishing scams using forged official documents

Italian authorities are warning citizens about a surge in sophisticated phishing scams where criminals impersonate the State Police. These fraudulent emails mimic official notifications, summons, or judicial acts, utilizing authentic logos, headers, and even forged signatures of the Chief of Police or high-ranking officials to appear legitimate.

The scam typically follows a specific pattern: victims receive a message claiming they are under investigation for viewing illegal online content, such as child pornography. The email pressures the recipient to provide justifications immediately to avoid criminal proceedings. Once a victim responds, scammers demand a sum of money as a “sanction” to close the case.

The Polizia di Stato emphasizes that law enforcement agencies never use email or messaging to notify individuals of criminal proceedings, nor do they ever request payments to cancel investigations. Citizens are advised not to click links, download attachments, or provide personal and banking credentials. Suspicious communications should be reported via the official Polizia Postale portal.