The Police have issued an urgent warning following a sharp rise in reports regarding deceptive text messages being sent in the name of the Malta Taxation and Customs Administration.

These messages lure the public with a supposed tax refund and contain a link that directs individuals to a fraudulent website. Unfortunately, those who entered their credit card details ended up having money stolen from their bank accounts.

The authorities are urging the public never to share personal or financial details through such messages and to always verify authenticity directly with the concerned entity.