Digital banking and device security precautions

Authorities and security experts are issuing guidance to mitigate risks associated with data breaches, device theft, and digital account hijacking.

In Brazil, officials recommend using the Central Bank’s Registrato system to monitor for unauthorized loans or accounts following data leaks. Under the General Data Protection Law (LGPD), companies must notify affected parties of such incidents. In Portugal, the Banco de Portugal warns that mobile phone theft poses significant risks to digital banking, noting that customers may be liable for unauthorized payments up to 50 euros if loss is not reported promptly.

As part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, experts have expanded recommendations to combat phishing, smishing, and vishing. Mexico’s Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC) recommends activating multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all sensitive accounts, using unique passwords, and keeping software updated.

Regarding device theft, experts suggest remotely locking devices via Google or Apple services and blocking SIM cards and IMEI numbers to prevent identity theft via SMS. In Argentina, users can call *910 to report theft and block lines. In Peru, users of the Yape platform are advised to call 1820 to block cards and accounts immediately upon device loss to prevent unauthorized transactions.