Israeli Digital Authority Warns of Fraud Blocking Voter Access by Hijacking Government Personal Accounts

Israel's National Digital Authority has issued a warning about a growing scam that targets citizens' government personal accounts, which are accessed via the my.gov.il platform. This digital portal consolidates sensitive personal information, including financial data, vehicle ownership, and residential addresses, and allows users to perform critical actions such as changing car ownership or updating their address with the Interior Ministry.

According to Yogev Shmni, head of technology and digital services at the Digital Authority, losing control of this account is akin to handing over the keys to one's home. The scam often begins when individuals search online for help with government services and encounter companies offering paid assistance. These companies then request personal details and verification codes, effectively gaining full control over the victim's account.

Once hijacked, the attacker can lock the rightful owner out and manipulate sensitive information, including changing the registered residential address. This not only enables identity theft and financial fraud but also allows the perpetrator to alter the victim's voting precinct, potentially preventing them from voting in elections.

The Digital Authority emphasizes that this is not a technological vulnerability but a case of social engineering exploiting psychological manipulation and moments of confusion. The scam affects a wide demographic regardless of digital literacy. With elections approaching, the authority urges heightened public awareness to protect personal accounts and voting rights.

The use of the personal government account has steadily increased, with about 3.3 million monthly users recently, a 22% rise from the previous year, and 5 million people having transferred vehicle ownership through the platform. The warning highlights the urgent need for vigilance against fraudulent services that compromise these critical digital identities.