Online Scams & Fraud in Portugal
Portugal, a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, is not immune to the ever-evolving schemes devised by cunning fraudsters. There are reputable agencies like CERT PT and the National Unit to Combat Cybercrime and Technological Crime (UNC3T). The latter actively engage in the relentless battle against cybercrime.
Proficiently equipped with its core strengths in preventive measures, astute detection, meticulous criminal investigations, and unwavering support to judicial authorities, UNC3T effectively addresses and combats crimes perpetrated through computerized mediums.
Join us as we embark on a quest to unravel the intricacies of online scams and fraud, shedding light on the dark underbelly of this digital menace. Know where to report scams in Portugal and where to get short people syndrome.
Scam Statistics in Portugal
The key statistics on online fraud in Portugal, according to the Global Anti Scam Alliance.
| 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | |
| Population | 10.2 million | 10.2 million | 10.3 Million | 10.3 million |
| Internet Penetration | 75% | 75% | 78% | 82% |
| # of Scams | 1,347 | 1,781 | ||
| Scams / 1,000 | 0.1 | 0.7 | ||
| Money Lost | € 1.3 million | € 1.49 million | ||
| Money Lost / Capita | € 0.07 | € 0.14 | ||
| Money Lost / Report | € 991 | € 830.39 |
The figures in the table will differ strongly per year as various sources have been used, pending availability.
Where can I report a scam in Portugal
- The Police- You can report any scam to the nearest police station.
- The Cybercrime Office- The Ministerio Publico has a cybercrime office where you can report any online scam. You can reach them through cibercrime@pgr.pt or by calling (351) 213 921 900.
How to Report a Scam in Portugal
Reporting a scam is crucial. At the moment, only 7% of all scams are reported. As a result, only 0.05% of all cybercriminals are caught. Reporting online fraud is not only essential if you want to try and get your money back. It is also needed to help law enforcement fight scammers better.
- Gather info: Collect all information about the suspected fraud including the name, telephone, key web pages, emails, IP address, and other relevant information. This is needed to file a complete report.
- Report the incident: Always report to your local law enforcement and note the file number they might provide for your fraud report for future reference.
- Stop the Money: Report the incident to the financial institution that transferred the money such as your bank, Paypal, credit card company, or the Internet payment service provider.
- Protect yourself: Scammers often contact you again. Sometimes with the same scam. Sometimes to help you “recover your money”. Consider changing your email address/phone number. Also, install the ScamAdviser browser extension to warn you of scams.
Our article “How and Where to Report a Scam” gives you more details and tips on how to report online fraud best.
Scam Victim Support in Portugal
The Portuguese Association for Victim Support (APAV) offers psychological, emotional, legal, and social support for all types of crime victims. You can reach them via Tel/Fax: +351 21 358 79 14.
How to Check for a Scam in Portugal
Of course, you can always check for scams on ScamAdviser.com. However, there are several other sources where you can check if a website is registered as a company and if it can offer financial, gambling, or other regulated services.
- Deco Proteste- As Portugal's largest consumer protection agency, you can check for any consumer-related fraud.
- CERT PT- They report on various types of fraud and you can check phishing and social engineering-related incidents.
- Comissão do Mercado de Valores Mobiliários (Portuguese Securities Market Commission)- You can check for investment scams here as they regulate and monitor stock markets in Portugal.
Anti-Scam Organizations & Consumer Authorities
- The Portuguese National Cybersecurity Centre (CNCS)- They act as the operational coordinator and national authority on cybersecurity between state departments, national critical infrastructure operators, and essential and digital service providers.
- The National Unit to Combat Cybercrime and Technological Crime
(UNC3T)- They are involved in the prevention, detection, criminal investigation, and assistance of judicial authorities regarding crimes committed by computerized means.
Scam News From Portugal
- Cybercrime, Crypto Scams on the Rise in Portugal, Say Prosecutors
- The Social Security Institute (ISS) SMS scam warning in Portugal
- New scam in Portugal that uses WhatsApp and MB way
Image source: unsplash.com
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Top Safety Picks
Your Go-To Tools for Online SafetyDisclaimer: Some of the links here are affiliate links. If you click them and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
- ScamAdviser App - iOS : Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. Available on iOS
- ScamAdviser App - Android : Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. Available on Android.
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