#LifeInCzechia There is a new threat for fresh freelancers in the Czech Republic. They are increasingly becoming targeted by scammers posing as an official association. Watch out and don’t fall for their lies. How can you recognize it’s a scam? Let’s learn more in this article!
Watch out for this “association”
What Is The Scam About?
Have you recently acquired a trade license? You may receive a letter from an association of entrepreneurs. They will ask you to pay 2,500 CZK within 14 days for the registration in the Česká komora firem a živnostníků (meaning Czech Chamber of Companies and Trades).
Watch out! This is not a registration to the Trade register. You don’t need to pay anything and you shouldn’t. The fraud aims at new self-employed people counting on the fact there is a high probability they’re not aware of all they need to do and pay for. But foreigners are also targeted as there is a language barrier making it easy to be mistaken for an official document.
What Does It Look Like?
The letter looks quite trustworthy just like an official letter: it has a unique serial number and contains many references to laws and articles. There is even an official round stamp.
You can also get the letter online via a data box, creating an illusion of an official institution. There is even a QR code for the payment.
Watch Out For The Difference
Even though the letter doesn’t specify it is a registration in the Trade Register, it can be easily mistaken for it. It also has no connection to the Czech Chamber of Commerce (Hospodářská komora).
Česká komora firem a živnostníků is in fact just a limited liability company that makes their business out of sending money orders. Watch out for similar companies called Česká komora živnostníků or Živnostenská komora.
Let us help you and book a trade licence consultation today!
If you want to feel at home, check out our categories of “Expat” and “Practical tips for expats” where you will find interesting information about the Czech Republic and recommendations how to make your life here easier.
Image sources: pexels
