The Local Health Unit (ULS) of Braga issued a warning on Tuesday regarding a new phishing scheme using its name aimed at “obtaining improper payments.”
These “fraudulent” messages claim there are “outstanding amounts related to services provided at the Primary Healthcare of ULS Braga, presenting an entity and reference for payment.”
“This is false and fraudulent,” the healthcare institution stated in a release sent to newsrooms.
The organization clarified that it “does not send SMS messages with a reference and entity for payment” and noted that “amounts due for services rendered by the institution can be settled at its facilities, in person, or via reference and entity sent through an official letter or email, if requested by the user.”
“This scheme aims to induce recipients to make bank transfers that have no connection with the SNS or ULS Braga,” it emphasized.
ULS Braga further mentioned that “appropriate measures are being taken with the relevant authorities” and urged citizens “not to respond to messages or follow any instructions contained therein,” as well as to “immediately delete any suspicious messages.”
“In case of doubt or suspicion of attempted fraud, report it immediately to the police authorities,” it advised.
In June, ULS Braga had already flagged a similar scheme. At the time, the institution assured that “appropriate measures were being taken with the competent authorities.”
Earlier this month, the National Health Service (SNS) indicated the circulation of false messages in its name and that of SNS 24.
“Fraud: if you receive an SMS in the name of SNS or SNS 24 for payment with multibanco reference or links, delete the message. The SMS is false,” it highlighted in a post on the social media platform X (Twitter).
The entity stressed that “the situation has already been reported to the authorities,” while urging to “always report scams or frauds to the competent authorities.”
False messages purporting to be from the National Health Service (SNS) and SNS 24, indicating alleged debts to be paid, are once again circulating. The case has been reported to authorities.
Notícias ao Minuto | 17:39 – 03/10/2025
