Brazil police warn of online scams stealing money from car and parts buyers

Police in Brazil reported two separate online fraud cases. In Jandaia do Sul, a 47‑year‑old man was tricked into installing a fake tracking app for a vehicle part. The malicious software gave criminals remote access to his phone, allowing them to withdraw R$1,940 from his Bradesco account and lock him out of other banking apps. Authorities warned consumers not to install files from unknown senders and to use only official app stores.

In Barretos, an electrician and a musician fell victim to a "intermediary" scam while trying to sell a VW/Fox. After negotiating through Facebook and WhatsApp with a supposed buyer named "Emerson," the parties arranged a payment of R$10,500 via Pix. The money never reached the seller’s account, revealing the scheme as an estelionato case now under investigation by the Central Police Judiciary.