A wave of fraudulent text messages claiming to notify drivers of traffic violations continues to circulate in Greece, with authorities warning that scammers are impersonating government agencies and the Hellenic Police to steal personal information and money.

The messages appear to come from senders identified as “GOV” or “EL.AS.” — the abbreviation for the Hellenic Police — and inform recipients that they have allegedly committed a traffic violation.

Some messages claim that the day they are received is the final opportunity to secure a 50% discount on the supposed fine, pressuring recipients to pay immediately.

The links direct users to fake websites that first request their TAXISnet credentials and then their bank card details.

The scam uses a technique known as smishing, a form of phishing in which fraudsters send deceptive text messages while posing as trusted organizations to obtain personal or financial information.

Authorities are urging drivers not to click on links or provide passwords and payment details through text messages. “No payment and no credentials should be submitted through a link sent by SMS,” they have stressed.

How to recognize a fake traffic fine notice

Digital traffic violation notices are uploaded to the Citizen’s Inbox, the official government service for receiving digital documents and notifications, according to Digital Governance Minister Dimitris Papastergiou.

Although citizens may receive notifications by text message, email or through the Gov.gr Wallet app, these alerts never contain a payment link. Drivers should access the official government service themselves to check whether a genuine violation has been recorded.

The promised 50% discount is another warning sign. There is no general discount for paying a traffic fine immediately. The previous provision allowing drivers to pay half the fine within 10 days was abolished under Law 4530/2018.

What to do if you receive a suspicious message

Authorities advise drivers to take the following precautions:

• Do not click on links in suspicious text messages or reply to them.
• Never enter TAXISnet credentials, bank card details or online banking passwords on websites reached through such messages.
• Check notifications only through official government services, accessing them directly rather than through links in texts or emails.
• Contact your bank immediately if you have provided banking information, so it can take steps to protect your account and card.
• Change your TAXISnet password immediately through the official Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) service if you have disclosed your login credentials.

Anyone seeking guidance or wishing to report a cybercrime can contact the Hellenic Police’s Cyber Crime Division at 11188. The line operates around the clock and is toll-free.