Most Common Scams in Digital Environments

The primary goal of most scammers in digital environments is straightforward: to obtain money. It is essential to be aware of the most common and recurring scams, as well as to follow prevention tips.

1. Fake Profile Scam on WhatsApp

Scammers create a fake account identical to a real user’s profile (an individual or a company) using a new phone number. They then impersonate the WhatsApp owner, sending messages to the contacts, requesting information, money, or even sharing links that, when accessed, allow the scammers to invade the victim’s device.

Prevention Tips:

• Never send money without first calling the person or company and, if possible, making a video call to confirm their identity.

• Avoid clicking on links sent via WhatsApp unless you are sure they are legitimate and validated.

2. WhatsApp Cloning Scam

This scam involves criminals contacting the victim while pretending to be a known person, seller, or company. After gaining the victim’s trust, they request a code (typically sent via SMS). Sharing this code grants the scammers access to the victim’s WhatsApp account, messages, and contacts. Unlike the fake profile scam, this method involves taking over the legitimate account.

Prevention Tips:

• Never share SMS codes with anyone.

• Enable two-factor authentication in WhatsApp to add a password and create additional security layers.

3. Phishing Scam (Fake Link)

Scammers use digital “bait,” such as fake websites that mimic legitimate ones, to “fish” for users’ passwords and financial information, including full names, taxpayer numbers (CPF), credit card numbers, and passwords.

Prevention Tips:

• As a general rule, banks, telecom operators, and other reputable companies do not send random links to their customers.

• Always be suspicious of links in emails, verify their authenticity, and delete questionable links as soon as possible.

4. PIX Scam on Instagram

This type of scam is prevalent due to the instantaneous nature of PIX transactions, making it easy for scammers to exploit victims.

Examples:

• Story Promises: The scammer hacks an Instagram account and posts stories offering an easy way to earn money, requiring an initial PIX payment.

• Sales Stories: The hacker posts stories selling items like electronics, appliances, or furniture at highly attractive prices.

Prevention Tips:

• Do not click on links sent via messages or SMS.

• Do not transfer funds without confirming the identity of the person, preferably via video call or in person, to ensure their account hasn’t been hacked.

• For businesses, avoid transferring money unless you verify through official channels. Legitimate companies, their directors, or employees rarely request payments via PIX through direct messages.

Final Note

Awareness and vigilance are crucial in preventing these scams. Always verify information, use secure practices, and avoid rushing into transactions or sharing sensitive information without confirmation.