On February 19, 2026, the Icelandic police conducted a real-time observation of an online scam that was targeting the public by impersonating the tax authority. During this operation, many individuals were deceived into signing up on a fraudulent website using their electronic credentials with the aim of stealing their money. The police are currently working on taking down this fake site to protect the citizens from further fraud.

As part of their response, the police promptly contacted victims of the scam and encouraged them to reach out to their banks for assistance. This proactive approach highlights the urgency of the situation, as the police acknowledged that recovering funds in online fraud cases can be challenging, but immediate action is crucial in these scenarios. The statement emphasizes that the public should be vigilant when receiving links to websites purportedly affiliated with official institutions, banks, or businesses.

In their announcement, the authorities noted that while successful recoveries in online fraud cases are rare, acting swiftly can make a significant difference. They advise individuals who are unsure whether a link is a scam to verify the sender by calling them directly. This advice underscores the importance of awareness and caution in a digital age where such scams are increasingly prevalent, reflecting a need for public education on recognizing potential online fraud attempts.