# SMS and digital fraud alerts in Iberia

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/sms-and-digital-fraud-alerts-in-iberia
> Updated: 2026-08-31T15:15:00.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Authorities in Portugal and Spain have issued warnings regarding various SMS-based fraudulent schemes. In early August, Portuguese officials cautioned against fraudulent links, advising citizens to change passwords and disconnect devices if malware is suspected. Simultaneously, Spain’s National Cybersecurity Institute (INCIBE) warned of a “hamburger” scam where replying to a text offering a free gift triggers expensive international premium messaging subscriptions.

By late August, the Portuguese Public Security Police (PSP) reported a surge in fake debt scams. In these schemes, criminals impersonate utility companies, telecommunications providers, and tax authorities via SMS, email, and phone calls. These scammers use high-pressure tactics, such as threatening service cuts or legal action, to coerce victims into making immediate payments through MB WAY or Multibanco references.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-31: PSP issues alert over fraudulent fake debt scam in Portugal

The Portuguese Public Security Police (PSP) warned of a new scam where criminals impersonate utility and tax authorities to demand payment for non-existent debts via SMS, email, and phone calls.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/psp-issues-alert-over-fraudulent-fake-debt-scam-in-portugal

### 2026-08-06: Portugal and Spain issue alerts on new SMS fraud scheme

Portugal's Banco de Portugal and CNCS advise swift steps after phishing clicks, while Spain's INCIBE warns of a new SMS scam that charges users for replying to a fake burger promotion.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/portugal-and-spain-issue-alerts-on-new-sms-fraud-scheme

---
Cite as: SMS and digital fraud alerts in Iberia. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/sms-and-digital-fraud-alerts-in-iberia