In a major enforcement action, Austria’s Financial Police and national law enforcement have uncovered a large-scale social security fraud in Tyrol.
The investigation began after an anonymous tip led authorities to inspect the tachographs of 33 trucks from a regional transport company. They found drivers were using multiple driver cards to dodge strict EU regulations on driving and rest periods — a major safety hazard.
“This case shows the outstanding work of our Financial Police and the power of coordinated enforcement,” said Finance Minister Markus Marterbauer. “The law applies equally to everyone.”
State Secretary Barbara Eibinger-Miedl warned that overtired drivers are a serious threat on the roads. “Thanks to rapid action, we dismantled a dangerous scam. Safety comes first, and rule-breakers will face tough consequences,” she said.
Investigators found serious violations: 24 charges were filed for failing to register workers properly, and eight drivers were caught working while illegally claiming unemployment benefits. Austria’s “Task Force on Social Benefits Fraud” is now pursuing fraud charges.
Two foreign drivers — one from Britain and one from Turkey — were working without valid permits, triggering separate proceedings. The Financial Police have called for the company’s business license to be revoked.
Authorities have already issued an €80,000 fine, and both the Austrian Health Insurance Fund and the Tax Office are auditing the company’s books.
In total, police identified 107 breaches of mandatory rest and driving time laws. Prosecutors have filed additional charges for document forgery and evidence tampering, with six confirmed cases of drivers using multiple cards. Proceedings under corporate liability laws are also underway.
Austria’s message is clear: systemic fraud will be uncovered — and dealt with swiftly.
