Brazil has seen a surge in sophisticated digital scams targeting banking customers, with several new methods exploiting mobile devices and messaging platforms. Since the launch of Caixa Tem in April 2020, Caixa Econômica Federal has recorded approximately 749,000 contested suspicious transactions, highlighting the scale of fraud linked to the app. The Brazilian Federation of Banks (Febraban) identified WhatsApp scams, fake sales, and fraudulent call centers as the main traps used against bank clients in the previous year. Recent vulnerabilities in WhatsApp allow malicious code execution disguised as images, increasing risks for users. A new mobile banking Trojan called 'Crocodilus' targets Android devices, stealing data, passwords, and money. Additionally, the BRats virus, which can drain bank accounts via Pix fraud even on locked phones, has emerged as a major threat, often delivered through unofficial app downloads or mobile games. High-profile victims include Brazilian businesspeople and celebrities, such as David Brazil, who lost nearly R$40,000 to a scam involving a fake lawyer. Authorities and banks across Brazil are issuing warnings about these evolving cyber threats, including risks associated with contactless card payments. Users are advised to exercise caution with downloads, messaging links, and payment methods to protect themselves from financial fraud.
Bancos de todo o Brasil estão emitindo alertas para quem paga com cartão por aproximação! https://t.co/7tVzAKbuFc
Il cybervirus più pericoloso passa anche da #Whatsapp: basta una chat per mettere a rischio il proprio cellulare. Ecco i trucchi per proteggere il proprio dispositivo. https://t.co/WLpBVzUAQW
Vírus em celulares Android desvia dinheiro do Pix sem que vítima perceba https://t.co/jT2qR5yhmv