The Bank of Portugal (BdP) called this Wednesday, October 15, for consumers to be alert when they receive messages or calls demanding payments for services such as energy, water, telecommunications or public entities.
In a note published on its portal, the BdP refers to four steps that fraud tends to repeat: contact by a supposedly reliable entity or known person, the creation of a credible and urgent situation, emotional pressure and the indication of a payment method.
Initially, the potential victim may receive a message, email or call from someone who identifies themselves as a service provider, a transport company, a public entity such as the Tax Authority or the police.
After this, “a credible situation that requires immediate payment” is presented, such as the settlement of a late payment or a fee to avoid returning an order.
“When fraud involves family or friends, the explanation may include a cell phone breaking down or the need to use an alternative number, always associated with an unforeseen event that justifies the urgent request for money”points out the central bank.
Emotional pressure occurs when the fraudster causes “urgency and fear” so that the potential victim feels under pressure and does not have time to confirm the information.
Subsequently, the scammer offers the possibility of payment through an ATM reference, transfer to an IBAN, by MB Way or through ‘links’ that simulate the appearance of official portals.
In this sense, the BdP leaves several suggestions for consumers, asking them not to give in to urgency and to analyze the requests received “carefully”.
“Be aware of other signs of fraud attempts, in addition to the use of emotional pressure, such as language errors, very depersonalized information or the use of a method of contact that is not usual”he suggests, adding that legitimate entities “do not require immediate payments via SMS, email or WhatsApp”.
Likewise, the central bank suggests checking missing payments on the portals of identified entities or through official contacts.
In the event of a request for money from an acquaintance, “contact him using the telephone number you know or through another usual means of contact”.
Access to unknown links must also be avoided and access must be made using the email addresses of the website you wish to access.
“If in doubt, do not make any payment or provide personal data without confirming that the order you received is genuine”highlights the BdP, which at the time of payment, suggests that the identity of the recipient is always confirmed.
“It is possible to identify the recipient in various types of payment transactions, including payments with MB WAY, before confirming the operation. If the recipient’s name does not match the name you expected, do not proceed with the payment without clarifying the situation”adds the BdP.
In case of fraud, the situation must be reported to the nearest police (PSP, GNR or PJ) or to the Public Prosecutor’s Office.
Likewise, if unauthorized movements are detected on the account, users must immediately contact their bank.