Brazilian Consumer Protection Agency Issues Online Scam Prevention Guide for Elderly Citizens

Digital Transactions and Scams Targeting the Elderly

The Procon of Cariacica, Brazil's consumer protection authority, has issued comprehensive guidance to address the rising tide of online scams targeting elderly citizens as digital transactions and social media usage become increasingly prevalent among seniors. The agency has compiled practical measures to help protect personal data and finances from criminal schemes conducted via mobile phones and the internet.

Common Scam Tactics

According to Procon's Municipal Coordinator, the most prevalent schemes include:

• Fake Pix transfer requests: Scammers impersonate relatives or friends, creating false urgency to pressure victims into sending money
• Fraudulent banking messages: Criminals posing as banks request password updates or financial credentials
• Predatory loan offers: Schemes advertising loans with interest rates far below market rates and immediate approval, often requiring advance fee payments
• Malicious links: Suspicious URLs distributed through email, SMS, and social media designed to steal confidential information

The coordinator emphasizes that legitimate banks never request passwords or security codes through phone calls or text messages.

Daily Prevention Measures

Procon's fundamental recommendation is never to provide banking information, passwords, or authentication codes via phone, WhatsApp, SMS, or social media. The agency offers the following specific safeguards:

1. Be suspicious of easy credit Be alert to loan offers with below-market interest rates or immediate approval, especially if advance payment of fees is required.

2. Avoid clicking suspicious links Do not click on electronic addresses received through SMS, email, or social networks, as these may contain malware or phishing attempts.

3. Research before purchasing online Investigate the company's history and verify the website is legitimate before making any online purchases.

4. Never allow remote access Do not permit strangers to access your mobile phone or computer remotely, as this gives criminals direct access to your sensitive information.

5. Ask for help and verify independently Whenever uncertain or suspicious about a financial transaction, consult with a trusted family member or friend before proceeding. Scammers often create artificial urgency to prevent victims from verifying requests through other channels.

If You Become a Victim

If you are defrauded, take the following immediate steps:

1. Preserve evidence: Save all records of the incident, including screenshots of conversations, payment receipts, phone numbers, email addresses, and advertisements.

2. Contact your bank: For Pix transfers or suspicious bank account activity, contact your bank immediately through official channels to report the fraud.

3. File a police report: Subsequently, file a formal complaint (Boletim de Ocorrência) with the Civil Police.

Support and Assistance

The Procon of Cariacica remains available to provide guidance on consumer rights and appropriate procedures. Citizens can reach the agency at phone number 162 or (27) 3354-5504.