Online scams are increasingly entering the mainstream, and their methods are constantly evolving. To safeguard against cyber scams, the BCRA advises financial service users to protect personal data and follow best practices to prevent fraud and identity theft.
Important: The BCRA never contacts bank customers directly to request personal or banking information—whether by phone, email, text message, or social media. The BCRA does not offer banking or financial services to the public. Nor does it request account information, access credentials for social media, or personal data to carry out procedures with any banking institution.
Recommendations:
- Do not share personal or banking information. Banks and public institutions never request the modification of personal data or passwords, nor do they ask for verification codes received through any channel.
- Do not open links sent via WhatsApp or Telegram, even if the number is labeled ‘Help Desk’ or has a profile image resembling that of a digital wallet, bank, or well-known company.
- If you receive phone calls, WhatsApp or Telegram messages, text messages, or emails offering financial services such as a loan, do not respond immediately. Contact the institution through its official channels to verify its authenticity.
- Do not respond to messages that mention errors in bank transfers. If you’re contacted regarding an alleged error, avoid sharing any personal or banking information and verify the situation directly with your bank through official channels.
- Avoid using ATMs, banking apps, or online banking while in communication with someone claiming to be a bank representative. In such cases, end the call immediately and contact the institution through official channels.
- Activate two-factor authentication across all your applications.
- Use strong, unique passwords and update them regularly.
- Avoid accepting the browser’s suggestion about saving your password.
- Avoid using public networks, and turn off Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or NFC to prevent automatic connections to nearby devices.
- Carefully examine the sender’s email address—scammers often create addresses that closely resemble those of trusted financial institutions.
How to Report a Scam or Fraud What to Do If You Identify Virtual Fraud or Trickery?
Contact the bank or financial institution as soon as possible.
Report the incident to the Specialized Cybercrime Prosecutor’s Unit (UFECI) by writing to: denunciasufeci@mpf.gob.ar
