World Cup 2026 triggers surge in online fraud scams

Cybersecurity experts warn that the 2026 FIFA World Cup is being used as a lure for extensive online fraud. Over 10,000 counterfeit websites mimicking official FIFA domains have been registered, offering fake streaming platforms, fraudulent ticket sales, QR codes and bogus prize‑draw apps that harvest personal and corporate data. One specialist highlighted that some fraud networks can generate around 60 million pesos per month.

Spain’s Guardia Civil has issued alerts that clicking on links promising free World Cup streams can install banking trojans on mobile devices, allowing attackers to empty victims’ accounts. The authorities advise users to avoid unsolicited links, download apps only from official stores, and be wary of unofficial streaming offers.