ÖAMTC warns against rip-offs with digital vignettes
traffic
The digital vignette is particularly popular in Salzburg than the adhesive vignette. Some online providers apparently want to take advantage of this. The ÖAMTC is now warning of platforms that charge surcharges for the purchase of the digital vignette. That is not illegal, but mostly expensive.
The digital version has now overtaken the sticker. For the year 2022, 26,000 digital vignettes have already been sold in advance in Salzburg. Some online providers apparently smell good business here.
Sometimes 70 percent more expensive
In the past few weeks, several Salzburg ÖAMTC members have pointed out unofficial vignette sales portals to the motorists’ club. These portals are not illegal. “However, they basically don’t sell the vignettes directly, but primarily offer the registration of the license plate – for a fee, of course. This means that a vignette via such a portal can cost almost 70 percent more than with a single provider, ”says ÖAMTC lawyer Ursula Zelenka. In addition, high costs can make it problematic if you want to withdraw from a purchase. Something if there are errors with the registration and thus an accommodating solution is required.
Search engines direct users from these platforms
Members would also repeatedly report that unofficial outlets appear at the top of Internet search engine results. The reason for this is quickly explained to the lawyer: “These are paid ads that are ranked first by Google & Co.”
Elimination of the 18-day period as a promotional gimmick
There are also unofficial providers who advertise the commencement of validity with the elimination of the 18-day period. “A surcharge is also included here. If you want to drive off with the new vignette immediately and without notice, you are on the safe side by buying from the ÖAMTC. The vignette is valid immediately and does not cost any more, ”says Zelenka. If you can wait 18 days, you can also buy the vignette from Asfinag or a tobacconist. In any case, the lawyer advises buying a vignette from a job.