The increase in telecommunications scams highlights the need for users to remain vigilant. Examples range from job offers to messages from the National Health Service (SNS) requesting debt regularization, to calls from alleged foreign authorities. In this environment, what measures are being taken by the payment management company SIBS and the National Communications Authority (Anacom)?
Anacom is “closely monitoring the situation”
An official from Anacom stated that the authority, within its mandate to regulate the communications sector and ensure security and reliability, is “monitoring this situation to identify the best practices in addressing these issues.” A recent example involved a message sent from the SNS 24 number, prompting an alert from the organization due to the added credibility and potential risk of the scam.
Anacom indicated that these “fraudulent calls or messages, often using spoofing techniques, have distinct legal implications, particularly in criminal terms.” Spoofing involves impersonating a trusted entity or user, often falsifying the sender’s identifier, whether a phone number, email address, or other type.
The authority submitted a proposal to amend the Electronic Communications Law to the previous government, advocating for legislative changes to combat practices like the misappropriation of phone numbers or message identifiers. Anacom will ensure compliance with any amendments affecting electronic communications service providers.
Can SIBS block fraudulent references?
SIBS mentioned that, in alignment with authorities, it can block references and payments when fraud or fraud attempts are detected, acknowledging that fraud evolves rapidly, which necessitates continuous monitoring and prevention efforts. SIBS is responsible for generating entity and reference codes for payment acceptance through the Multibanco system via financial institutions and payment service providers.
In issuing a multibanco payment reference, all parties must adhere to security procedures and legal requirements. Despite its intrinsic security, the payment method can be exploited by criminals who deceive victims into making payments, underscoring the importance of reporting crimes to authorities for action in cooperation with SIBS.
Users must stay alert
SIBS emphasizes it offers highly secure services but stresses the importance of user vigilance in case of abnormal activities. Users are advised to distrust requests for personal data, even if they appear legitimate. Anacom advises consumers to follow protective recommendations from law enforcement, being cautious with online information sharing and avoiding public exposure of contacts.
