The Brazilian Federation of Banks (Febraban) issued a warning about financial fraud, as criminals have been appropriating the entity's name and logo to carry out scams. These tactics include sending fake messages regarding suspicious transactions and promoting loans with seemingly favorable conditions.
The entity publicly clarified that it operates as a non-profit civil association whose function is to represent financial institutions, and it does not have direct contact with bank customers. For this reason, Febraban never contacts individuals or companies to perform security procedures or conduct financial operations.
Raphael Mielle, Director of Services and Security at the entity, warned that Febraban never contacts individuals or legal entities via SMS, phone calls, mail, email, WhatsApp, or any social network to discuss security issues or finalize financial operations, classifying such practice as a form of scam.
Another frequent type of fraud involves false credit offers. In this scheme, scammers set up websites and profiles that mimic financial institutions, advertising loans with significant advantages, quick release, or facilities for people with credit restrictions.
After the interested party fills out a form, the fraudsters may send a forged contract and request advance payment of fees, taxes, or other amounts necessary for the release of the funds. To persuade the victim, the criminals claim that these charges are standard market procedures or requirements of Febraban itself, although the entity vehemently denies offering loans or charging money to release credit.
Mielle reinforced the alert, advising: 'Always be suspicious if they demand any upfront payment to release a loan. Charges for taxes, registration fees, or advance installment payments as a condition to receive the credit are signs of a scam. Febraban does not offer loans nor charge money for their release.'
The primary guidance provided is to remain cautious of messages that create a sense of urgency, mention supposed banking problems, or promote credit under atypical circumstances.
To mitigate the risk of being targeted by fraud, Febraban recommends that even if the message contains logos or uses language similar to communication from a recognized institution, it is essential to confirm the request through an official channel before taking any action.
