SCAM ALERT: Fraudsters Impersonate Spanish Health Ministry in SMS Renewal Scam
Residents of the Canary Islands are being warned to ignore any text messages or emails claiming they need to “renew” their health card. This alarming trend has raised concerns among local authorities and health officials, who are keen to protect the public from falling victim to these deceptive tactics.
Phishing Campaign Details
The Instituto Nacional de Ciberseguridad (INCIBE) has issued an official alert regarding a phishing campaign currently circulating in Spain. Criminals are impersonating the Ministerio de Sanidad (Ministry of Health) to steal personal data and bank details. This sophisticated scam preys on individuals’ fears and confusion regarding health services, making it particularly insidious.
The scam begins with an SMS or email that appears official, warning recipients that they must renew their health card (Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual, TSI) due to a “new verification system.” The message includes a link leading to a fake website designed to closely resemble the official one, creating a false sense of security for unsuspecting users.
Once on the fraudulent page, users are prompted to complete a series of fake “security steps.” These include solving a simple calculation, selecting their autonomous region (with fake logos), and entering personal information such as their DNI/NIE and full name. Ultimately, the site requests a €2.99 payment, supposedly for the postage of the new card. This payment is just another tactic to extract money from victims, further complicating the scam.
Identifying the Scam
INCIBE has identified several red flags in these fraudulent messages. Authorities emphasize that the health card does not need to be renewed. The Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (TSI) is personal, permanent, and unique, and any legitimate changes or replacements must only be made through official channels. This is crucial information that residents must keep in mind to avoid being misled.
These procedures require secure identification, such as a digital certificate, electronic DNI, or Cl@ve system. If a website claiming to be official does not request these credentials, it is almost certainly fraudulent. Additionally, legitimate communications from the Ministry of Health will never ask for sensitive information via text or email, reinforcing the need for caution.
What to Do If You Receive the Message
If you haven’t clicked the link, it is advised to delete the message immediately. If you have entered your details, authorities recommend contacting your bank and reporting the incident to the police. This proactive approach can help mitigate potential damage and protect your financial information.
Authorities are urging everyone to remain vigilant and not to click on suspicious links, even if they appear to come from official institutions. It is essential to verify the authenticity of any communication before taking action, especially when it involves personal or financial information.
Furthermore, residents are encouraged to share this information with friends and family to raise awareness about the scam. The more people are informed, the less likely they are to fall victim to these fraudulent schemes. Community vigilance can play a significant role in combating such scams.
Key Points
- Residents of the Canary Islands warned about a phishing scam.
- Scammers impersonate the Spanish Ministry of Health.
- Messages claim health card renewal is necessary due to a new verification system.
- Fraudulent websites request personal information and a €2.99 payment.
- The Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual does not require renewal.
- Legitimate changes must be made through official channels with secure identification.
- Authorities advise vigilance against suspicious messages.
- Community awareness can help prevent victimization.
- Immediate action is recommended if personal information has been compromised.
