According to a Febraban survey, WhatsApp scams, fake sales, and fake bank call center/employee scams were the most reported by customers in 2024. Criminals use tactics such as WhatsApp account cloning via security code theft, fake pages and profiles to simulate online sales, and impersonation of bank employees to steal victims' personal and financial data.
Other significant frauds include phishing, where fake emails and messages trick users into clicking malicious links and providing sensitive data; fake investment schemes, where websites and profiles simulate high-return opportunities to lure victims; and card swapping, where fraudsters take advantage of moments of distraction to swap the victim's card during in-person purchases.
Additional crimes detailed include the sending of fake payment slips (boletos), fraudulent loan refund requests, the "ghost hand" fraud involving the installation of malicious apps, and the fake courier scam, where criminals collect supposedly blocked cards. For each type of scam, Febraban provides prevention guidance, such as verifying the source of contacts, not sharing passwords or security codes, and always using official bank channels.
Febraban also highlights investment in awareness campaigns and security technologies, totaling around R$ 5 billion in 2023 to protect customers against cybercrime and fraud. The organization stresses the importance of vigilance and caution — especially when faced with very attractive offers or suspicious contacts — and always encourages the use of two-factor verification and direct confirmation with financial institutions.
This post was summarized from its original version with the use of AI, with human review.
Source: Febraban