PSP issues alert over fraudulent fake debt scam in Portugal

The Portuguese Public Security Police (PSP) has issued an alert regarding a surge in fraudulent schemes involving fake debt claims. Scammers are using SMS, email, and phone calls to impersonate legitimate entities, including energy and water companies, telecommunications providers, public services, and tax authorities.

The criminals employ high-pressure tactics, claiming there are outstanding invoices and threatening immediate service cuts or legal action to induce panic. This sense of urgency is designed to prevent victims from verifying the legitimacy of the claims.

The PSP advises citizens not to click on links, open attachments, or make immediate payments via MB WAY or Multibanco references. If a suspicious debt notice is received, individuals should contact the institution directly through official channels rather than using any contact information provided in the suspicious message.