Brazilian Consumer Protection Agency Impersonation Scam Targets Business Owners in Pelotas

A phishing scam impersonating Brazil's municipal consumer protection agency (Procon Pelotas) is targeting business owners and entrepreneurs with fraudulent fine notices sent via email. The agency has already handled three inquiries from business owners questioning the legitimacy of messages demanding non-existent penalties. Scammers are using increasingly sophisticated techniques including fake protocol numbers and legal threats.

Overview of the Scam

A phishing scam impersonating Pelotas' municipal consumer protection agency (Procon Pelotas) is targeting business owners with fraudulent fine notices. Scammers use the agency's official name and visual identity to send emails demanding payment for non-existent penalties.

How the Scam Works

The fraudulent emails exhibit these characteristics:

Fake fine demands: Requests payment for penalties or administrative actions that don't exist
False protocol numbers: Includes fake case numbers and reference codes to appear legitimate
Legal threats: References to legal proceedings and court action to create urgency
Malicious links: Clicking links installs malware or steals personal information
Dangerous attachments: Executable files containing keyloggers or spyware

According to the Brazilian Association of Consumer Protection Agencies, these frauds have become technologically sophisticated and difficult to detect through standard email filters.

How to Identify the Scam

Legitimate communications from Procon Pelotas have these characteristics:

Official email address: All official communications come exclusively from [email protected]
Proper delivery methods: Hand delivery by officials with credentials or registered mail with delivery confirmation (AR)
Never used channels: Official notices are never sent through informal emails, messaging apps, or social media

When you receive suspicious messages, verify:

That the sender's email address matches the official address exactly
Whether you actually have any pending administrative case
The plausibility of the alleged charges against your business
Any inconsistencies in agency procedures or language

Prevention Tips

To protect yourself from this scam:

Never:

Click links in unsolicited emails
Provide personal or financial information
Make payments based on these emails
Reply to email addresses mentioned in suspicious messages

If you receive a suspicious message:

Contact Procon Pelotas directly at (53) 3305-3505 or [email protected]
Verify the claim through the official website
Screenshot and save the fraudulent email as evidence
Do not forward credentials or sensitive data

If you suspect fraud:

Report to Procon Pelotas immediately
File a report with local police
Contact your bank if any payment was made
Report to email and internet service providers

Where to Report and Get Help

Procon Pelotas offers in-person consultations:

Hours: Monday and Friday 8am-5pm; Tuesday-Thursday 8am-2pm
Location: Praça Rio Branco, 7 (Former Railway Station building)
Phone: (53) 3305-3505
Email: [email protected]