Portugal issues alerts against rising phishing and fraud schemes

Portuguese authorities and cybersecurity experts are issuing warnings regarding increasing fraudulent activities targeting citizens. The Social Security agency (Segurança Social) has released an alert via its official website regarding phishing attempts conducted through SMS and email. These scams often use the institution's name and logo to simulate pending debts or refunds, aiming to trick individuals into clicking fraudulent links or sharing banking details.

Social Security clarified that it never sends direct links for payments or requests IBAN information via message. Citizens are advised to verify any notifications regarding debts or credits exclusively through the official Social Security Portal or mobile application.

In a related effort to combat scams, the website AlertaFraude.pt has been launched with support from the cybersecurity firm WhiteHat. The platform serves as a free public guide, cataloging 64 different fraud schemes circulating in Portugal, ranging from MB WAY scams to VAT-related fraud. The site provides tools for users to verify suspicious messages and offers guidance on the immediate steps to take if they have been defrauded.