What are the key phishing red flags in German tax messages?

Look for mismatched sender domains, generic greetings, spelling errors, pressure to act fast, requests for IBAN or Steuer-ID, and links that do not match the official ELSTER site. Attachments labeled as “Bescheid” or “Rechnung” are risky. When in doubt, access ELSTER by typing the address yourself.

How do tax refund scams typically work in Germany?

Fraudsters promise a quick refund, then ask you to confirm identity or bank details through a fake portal or attachment. They may spoof Finanzamt branding and reference numbers. Once data is captured, they attempt account takeover or misuse your identity. Ignore links and log in through ELSTER directly.

Which bank metrics signal rising fraud costs for investors?

Watch fraud loss rates, chargebacks, reimbursement claims, and customer remediation costs. Check operating expense lines for security and compliance, and any commentary on authentication friction. Movement in cost-to-income ratios alongside higher dispute volumes often indicates pressure on margins and potential near-term earnings drag.

What should I do if I clicked a suspicious tax link?

Disconnect from public Wi-Fi, run antivirus, change passwords, and enable multi-factor authentication. Contact your bank to monitor or block risky activity, and notify ELSTER support to secure access. Save evidence, then report the incident to the BSI and local police. Consider placing alerts on your accounts.

Law and Government

February 19: Tax Scams Spike — Banks, Fintechs Face Fraud Cost Hit

ByDanny Kontos February 19, 2026February 19, 2026

Tax season brings fresh impersonation attempts in Germany, and cybersecurity tips matter now. We see phone, email, SMS, and mail schemes copy ELSTER, Finanzamt, and BZSt branding. HMRC and IRS alerts abroad show the same pattern. For investors, rising fraud loss rates and higher compliance spend can pressure banks and fintechs in the near term. Margins and cost-to-income ratios may weaken as remediation, call-center time, and security investment increase. Knowing phishing red flags and tax refund scams helps consumers stay safe and helps investors assess earnings risk in the German market.