Public Prosecutor warns of fake TAP refund emails

Monday, 20 April 2026AI summary
Public Prosecutor warns of fake TAP refund emails
Photo: JOSE SENA GOULAO/LUSA

The Public Prosecutor's Office (Ministério Público) has issued a warning regarding a phishing campaign targeting TAP Air Portugal customers. Fraudsters are sending emails claiming victims are entitled to flight delay compensation, directing them to a fake website to steal banking credentials. Authorities advise the public to remain vigilant against these social engineering tactics.

Context & Explainers

The Ministério Público (Public Prosecution Service) is Portugal's independent state prosecution body, responsible for leading criminal investigations, bringing charges, and representing the public interest in court.

The MP operates autonomously from the government and the police, though it directs criminal investigations carried out by the Polícia Judiciária, PSP, and GNR. It is led by the Procurador-Geral da República (Attorney General), who is appointed by the President on the government's proposal.

The MP gets involved in high-profile cases including corruption, financial crime, and incidents of potential institutional negligence. It also defends the legality of government actions and protects citizens' fundamental rights through the courts.