Digital security has become a growing concern in the digital age. With the spread of the Internet and mobile devices, virtual fraud has multiplied, and Brazilian banks have not been immune to this reality. It is essential for customers to be aware and protect themselves against scams carried out through misleading messages and other fraudulent tactics.
Learn about scams applied through messages
Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated at creating strategies to scam people. Knowing the most important scams carried out via messages is the first step to protecting yourself and avoiding falling into traps.
1. On WhatsApp
One of the most common scams is carried out via WhatsApp. Criminals create fake profiles using a legitimate user’s photo but with a different phone number. They start a conversation with the victim’s friends and family, claim an emergency and ask for money transfers or bill payments.
2. Loyalty points scam
Scammers pretend to be financial institutions or dating apps and send messages short message With supposedly expired loyalty points or bonus rewards. Besides fake content, they redirect links pointing to fake pages. Victims are urged to fill in personal details, such as CPF number, bank branch number and even the password for their card or bank app.
3. When registering pix
Registration for Pix, an instant payment system, has also been used as bait by scammers. They pretend to be from financial institutions and send registration requests that direct victims to fake websites.
4. Fake email scam
for every e-mail, criminals pose as bank account managers who report suspicious access and request security measures, such as installing a supposedly exclusive browser. The goal is to direct the victim to a fake page to capture passwords or install malicious files on the computer.
5. Online shopping scam
Scammers create fake pages, links and profiles to sell products or services that do not exist. They often use attractive promotions and discounts to attract victims, who, in addition to not getting the product or service, may have their personal and card details exposed.
6. False invoice fraud
In this scam, criminals falsify or distort invoice charges to divert payment to other payees, rather than paying the victim’s expenses.
7. Catfish scam
Catfish is a scam in which a fake profile is created, usually using photos from third parties, with the aim of starting conversations on social media. The scammer pretends to care about the victim, little by little gaining their trust to carry out scams such as emotional fraud, extorting money or installing virus-infected files that can steal personal and banking data.
Warning signs to identify
It is important to be aware of some warning signs to recognize potential scams. Check out some tips to avoid falling for fake messages:
- False doubts about purchase, payment or transfer;
- account ban or suspension of services;
- registry or security updates;
- Loyalty points expiration;
- Very useful gift offers, discounts or promotions.
These are just some of the baits that criminals use to attract people’s attention. The goal is to cause an emotional impact so that the victim acts impulsively and performs some action, such as clicking a link, downloading a file, or executing a transaction.
How to protect yourself from fraud in Brazilian banks
Now that you know the main scams in Brazilian banks, it is important that you know how to protect yourself and avoid becoming a victim of these scams. Check out some of the security measures that can be adopted:
- Stay informed: Always be on top of the latest scams and techniques used by criminals. Follow the official channels of banks and security agencies to stay informed of major threats.
- Be suspicious of suspicious messages: If you receive a message that looks suspicious, be skeptical. Make sure the sender is trustworthy, analyze the content of the message and do not click on links or download files without first checking their authenticity.
- Keep your devices safe: Keep your phone, computer, and other devices updated with the latest software and antivirus versions. Use strong passwords and avoid sharing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi networks.
- Verify the authenticity of websites: Before making any transaction or providing personal information, check if the website is secure. Make sure the address starts with “https://” and that there is a padlock next to the address.
- Be wary of requests for personal data: Banks and financial institutions never ask for personal information, such as passwords, via email, phone or text. If you receive any such request, contact the bank directly to verify its authenticity.
- Use two-factor authentication: Whenever possible, enable two-factor authentication on your bank accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring an additional code to access your account.
- Reporting Frauds: If you are a victim of fraud, report it immediately to the relevant authorities and your bank. The more information that is shared, the greater the chance that criminals will be identified and punished.
Fraud in Brazilian banks is a reality that requires attention and care from customers. Knowing the major scams and adopting security measures can help you avoid falling into traps and protect your data and assets. Stay informed, be wary of suspicious messages and adopt good digital security practices to stay protected in the virtual world.
Want to learn more about digital security and fraud prevention? In the WhatsApp BB (61 4004 0001)write it down #protection Talk to a virtual assistant who will provide you with advice and protection solutions offered by Banco do Brasil.
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