Mexico: Rise in scam telephone calls nationwide

Event

Individuals across Mexico have reported an uptick in the number of scam telephone calls, in which criminals attempt to obtain personal and financial information. Many of the calls claim to be from a bank, but do not specify which bank, and ask individuals to submit financial information to obtain a bank card. A particularly large number of the scam calls have been reported in the states of Chihuahua, Tamaulipas, and Hidalgo. Federal authorities have reportedly opened an investigation into the calls, and are urging individuals to not answer calls from suspicious numbers.

Context

Criminals commonly use phishing scams (fake emails, text messages, or phone calls) to attempt to obtain sensitive personal and financial information. Electronic communications are often disguised in a way to make them appear legitimate (e.g. fake websites, official looking brand logos, etc.) and ask individuals to submit personal information over the phone or by following a website URL.

Advice

Individuals in Mexico are advised to monitor the situation and to refrain from submitting any personal or financial information during phone calls from unknown numbers.