ASFINAG Fake Toll Fine SMS Scam (Austria)
Smishing scammers impersonate ASFINAG via SMS to claim a fake toll or parking fine, luring Austrian drivers to a phishing site that steals payment card data.
What Is This Threat?
A smishing (SMS phishing) campaign is actively targeting people in Austria. Victims receive a text message from a contact saved or displayed as "Parkstrafe" (parking fine), claiming they have an outstanding balance that must be paid immediately or a reminder fee ("Mahngebühr") will be added.
The message links to a fraudulent domain impersonating ASFINAG — Austria's official motorway and expressway financing company (Autobahnen- und Schnellstraßen-Finanzierungs-Aktiengesellschaft).
The Scam Message (Real Example)
Parkstrafe — SMS received 14:22
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"Bitte begleichen Sie Ihren ausstehenden Betrag so schnell wie möglich. Andernfalls erheben wir eine Mahngebühr. Details: https://asfinag.dmliwmwa.eu.cc/at"
>
Translation: "Please settle your outstanding amount as soon as possible. Otherwise we will charge a reminder fee. Details: [link]"
Why It's Convincing
How to Spot the Fake Domain
The real ASFINAG website is asfinag.at. The scam URL asfinag.dmliwmwa.eu.cc/at reveals multiple red flags:
| Indicator | Scam URL | Legitimate |
|---|---|---|
| Real domain | dmliwmwa.eu.cc | asfinag.at |
| TLD | .eu.cc (free, abused) | .at (Austrian official) |
| ASFINAG position | Subdomain prefix only | Actual domain owner |
| Path | /at (geo-targeting trick) | N/A |
The .eu.cc TLD is a free subdomain service frequently used by scammers because it allows anyone to register anything.eu.cc instantly and anonymously.
What Happens If You Click
Red Flags Checklist
dmliwmwa.eu.cc — not asfinag.atHow to Protect Yourself
- Never click links in unexpected SMS messages about fines or fees
- Always verify tolls and fines directly on the official ASFINAG website (asfinag.at)
- Check the full URL — the real ASFINAG domain ends in .asfinag.at, never .eu.cc or similar
- Official Austrian authorities always include a reference number and your vehicle plate in communications
- Enable spam/scam filters on your mobile device
- Forward suspicious SMS messages to your carrier's spam reporting service
What to Do If Affected
- 1.Do NOT click the link — close the message immediately
- 2.If you already clicked but did not enter data, you are likely safe — clear your browser cache
- 3.If you entered payment details, contact your bank immediately to freeze your card
- 4.File a report with the Austrian police (Polizei.gv.at) and Watchlist Internet (watchlist.at)
- 5.Forward the SMS to the Austrian consumer protection agency
- 6.Check your bank statements for unauthorized charges over the next 30 days