New wave of ZUS scam texts targets Poles

19 June 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Poland warns of a new ZUS scam via SMS. Forward suspicious messages to 8080 and confirm with official channels.

Poland’s Social Insurance Institution warns of a new ZUS scam hitting citizens by text message. Consequently, officials urge quick reporting to stop fraud and protect savings.

Table of Contents

ZUS scam: How attackers operate

Scammers send fake SMS messages that pretend to link to eZUS or other portals. Moreover, they pressure recipients to act fast by claiming tiny debts or fines. Therefore, many people feel rushed and click links without checking. However, the links direct victims to phishing sites that steal login details. In addition, fraudsters sometimes call elderly people. They promise higher pensions in exchange for a one-time fee. Consequently, attackers seek money and personal data such as PESEL numbers and bank card details.

What the institution says and official rules

ZUS reminds citizens that official SMS messages never include external links. Moreover, ZUS will never request passwords, login details, or full card data over the phone. In addition, the institution only contacts people who signed up for eZUS messages. Therefore, if you did not sign up, you should treat any unexpected contact as suspicious. Officials point to a recent case in Zielona Góra, where a man avoided loss by visiting his local ZUS office in person. Consequently, staff confirmed fraud and blocked the scheme.

How to protect yourself and report incidents

Do not click on suspicious links. Moreover, do not reveal passwords or card numbers. Instead, forward any dubious SMS to the free number 8080. CERT Polska can then block dangerous domains quickly, and therefore protect other users. In addition, you can report fake websites via incydent.cert.pl. You can also use the mObywatel government app to flag malicious content. However, if someone calls you claiming to be a ZUS official, hang up and call the official ZUS hotline. Consequently, your bank can freeze transactions if you report suspect payments fast. Furthermore, if scammers visit your home, request ID and contact the police immediately.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: ZUS (Zakład Ubezpieczeń Społecznych) is Poland’s social insurance agency. eZUS means an electronic communication channel for registered users. mObywatel is a government app that stores documents and alerts. PESEL is your national ID number. Therefore, as an expat, register official channels with ZUS only after verifying identity. In addition, keep your bank informed about potential scams and carry official ID when you visit offices.

Officials warn that fraudsters now use deepfake videos and spoofed caller IDs to appear legitimate. Moreover, they target expats who may hold Polish bank accounts or receive benefits. Therefore, verify any surprising request by contacting ZUS directly. In addition, always check web addresses carefully and prefer official portals. Consequently, the simple act of forwarding an SMS to 8080 can stop a scam fast.

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