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Serasa Experian warns of lookalike scam targeting biometrics
Serasa Experian has identified a new identity fraud method known as the ‘lookalike scam’ (golpe do sósia). In this tactic, criminals use facial comparison technology to find individuals with physical characteristics similar to their own to bypass biometric authentication during account openings or registrations.
Unlike traditional identity theft where criminals target specific victims, this method begins with the fraudster's own face. They use facial comparison engines to scan databases—including those obtained illegally—to find a legitimate identity with a high degree of physical similarity. This increases their chances of successfully passing biometric validation.
Leandro Bartolassi, Director of Authentication and Fraud Prevention at Serasa Experian, warns that facial recognition should not be used as a sole layer of security. He recommends combining it with other verification methods, such as document validation, proof of life, device analysis, and behavioral patterns. In the first half of 2026, Serasa reported blocking approximately 2.86 million fraud attempts, representing a 32.9% increase from the previous year and an estimated loss prevention of R$ 3.77 billion.
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What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Criminals use facial comparison engines to locate legitimate identities with a high degree of physical similarity from various databases. www.nitronewsbrasil.com.br
- [● 2 SOURCES] A new identity fraud strategy called the ‘lookalike scam’ uses facial comparison technology to find people with physical characteristics similar to the criminals. www.nitronewsbrasil.com.br
- [● 2 SOURCES] Facial recognition should not be used as a sole layer of authentication to prevent such exploits. www.nitronewsbrasil.com.br