Beware of scammers!
How can you recognize fraudulent websites (scam websites)?
While browsing the internet, you may have already noticed that some websites appear noticeably less reputable than others. A number of renowned news portals such as the Consumer Advice Centre Baden-Württemberg (01.07.2025), the Allgäuer Zeitung (11.06.2025), Tagesschau (20.05.2025) as well as BR24 (12.04.2025) have already reported on the dangers of scam websites and specifically warned against fraud when purchasing vignettes. Below you will find tips on how to recognize fraudulent websites in order to avoid financial losses.
Check the website's links (URLs) carefully
If you visit a website that is unfamiliar to you and that offers products or services, you should first carefully check the URL. Pay particular attention to unusual characters, additional words, or spelling mistakes in the web address.
Cheap doesn't automatically mean reputable
Attractive prices are tempting, but they are often deliberately used by fraudsters. Therefore, be especially cautious if a product is offered significantly cheaper than by other providers. In the past, there have been several cases of travelers purchasing invalid vignettes and subsequently having to pay fines.
Take a critical look at payment methods
Another warning sign is when only advance payment is offered as a payment method. Reputable online shops usually offer several payment options, such as credit card or PayPal, which provide buyer protection. Also, never carelessly share sensitive data such as credit card numbers, passwords, or TANs.
Check the imprint
A reputable website always has a complete imprint with clear contact details. This includes, among other things, the name of the person responsible, the company address, an email address or phone number, and, where applicable, a commercial register entry.
Verify contact details
If in doubt, it is advisable to check the information provided in the imprint. For example, check whether the company actually exists based on the address given. This often makes it possible to quickly expose disreputable providers.
Correctly assessing trust seals
Many reputable websites use well-known trust seals. However, fraudulent sites also use fake seals. Therefore, always check the other criteria as well, since a seal alone is no guarantee of legitimacy.
The overall impression of the website
In addition to the points mentioned, the general impression also plays an important role. If spelling mistakes, unclear wording, or unprofessional-looking texts accumulate, caution is advised. Reputable providers generally place great importance on linguistic and content quality.
Tip: Take action
If you come across a suspected scam website during your research, you should report it to the consumer advice center. In this way, you help protect other users from fraud.
You can trust us
Use the tips mentioned above to make your online purchases safe. Of course, you can also apply these criteria to our offer and convince yourself of our credibility. Feel free to visit Trustpilot and get an impression of our trustworthiness based on other customers' reviews.
Purchase your digital vignette for your next trip conveniently online. You can find more information on tolls and the corresponding vignettes in our guide. In addition, our route planner supports you in optimal trip planning. If you have any questions, we are of course happy to help. Feel free to contact us at any time by email.
Links to further news portals
If you would like more in-depth information about scam websites, here is an overview of the reports mentioned:
Consumer Advice Centre Baden-Württemberg (01.07.2025)
Allgäuer Zeitung (11.06.2025)
Tagesschau (20.05.2025)
BR24 (12.04.2025)
