0800 scam: new fraud involves transfers via Pix; see how to protect yourself

New variations of blows appear every year, but all with a constant purpose: to obtain confidential data or to carry out fraudulent transfers through Pix.

One such scheme on the rise is known as the “0800 number scam.”

Be alert to the new scam involving Pix

This new fraud trend has the strategy of sending text messages to potential victims, usually from short numbers such as 25500.

These messages contain false information about purchases, transactions, debt collections, or account security updates.

At the end of the text, the scammers ask the person to call a number starting with the prefix 0800 or click on one link suspicious, which will lead to a phone call.

Image: My Operator/Reproduction

During the call, criminals employ fraud techniques. social engineering to obtain victims’ personal data or even an authentication code, which will allow them to carry out fraudulent financial transactions.

Social engineering is a tactic used by cybercriminals to exploit the vulnerability of victims themselves and obtain confidential information.

The perpetrators of this type of scam try to gain the trust of their victims through text messages sent to their cell phones, either through SMS or phonecalls apparently legitimate.

By simulating situations that require an immediate response, such as supposed suspicious transactions, scammers seek to manipulate victims’ urgency and fear, leading them to act rashly and disclose sensitive information.

The popularity of Pix, an instant transfer system used in Brazilhas made it a common target for fraudsters. By accessing personal data and authentication codes, scammers can carry out unauthorized transactions, causing significant financial losses to victims.

To protect yourself against the 0800 phone number scam and other types of fraud, it is important to always be alert to suspicious contacts via cell phone, in addition to always adopting security measures, such as those explained below.

Precautions to avoid scams and fraud

1. Be wary of messages and calls received from unknown or suspicious sources, especially those asking for personal information or immediate action.
2. Carefully check phone numbers and website addresses before clicking on links or returning calls. Using official contact channels provided by the companies or institutions involved is a safer practice.
3. Never provide personal data, passwords or authentication codes over the phone unless you are sure of the legitimacy of the request and the source.
4. Keep your electronic devices up to date with the latest security updates and use reliable antivirus solutions.
5. Report any attempted fraud to the competent authorities and responsible bodies, as well as to financial institutions through their service channels.

Staying alert and adopting cybersecurity practices is essential to protect yourself against blows increasingly sophisticated virtual scams. By being informed and aware of the risks, it is possible to reduce the chances of becoming another victim of these scams.