Costa Rica Tackles Rising SMS Smishing Scams with Bank‑Issued Virtual Cards

Costa Rica is experiencing a surge in digital fraud known as smishing, where scammers send fake SMS messages that appear to be from public agencies or banks, warning of fines, expired points or urgent prizes. The National Highway Council (COSEVI) and several banks have issued alerts after detecting mass distribution of such messages that direct users to fraudulent websites designed to steal credentials and financial data. Experts advise citizens never to respond to suspicious texts, avoid clicking links, delete the messages, block the senders and verify any claims through official channels. Additional safeguards include enabling two‑factor authentication, keeping mobile operating systems updated and using built‑in anti‑spam filters.

In response, Costa Rican banks—including Banco de Costa Rica, Banco Nacional, Banco Popular, BAC San José, DaviBank, Promérica, Lafise and BCT—are promoting free virtual cards. These cards function like regular debit or credit cards but can be loaded with a user‑defined amount for each online purchase, limiting exposure if the card details are compromised. They can be created instantly via banking apps, carry no administration fees, and are accepted at both domestic and international merchants. By combining public warnings with these virtual‑card tools, authorities aim to reduce the risk and financial impact of online fraud on consumers.