Discover the “Desenrola” scheme on WhatsApp and how to ensure your protection
The prominence and easy access to social networks and messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook have become a breeding ground for scammers. Recently, a new scam related to the federal government’s debt renegotiation program, called “Desenrola”, began to spread on these platforms.
What is the nature of the “Desenrola” scam?
Fraudsters are taking advantage of users' lack of knowledge to carry out the scam. They create situations where they can offer favorable discounts on debts or offer more details in exchange for registration, requesting personal information, making payments online or providing fraudulent contact numbers and links.
Criminals use these “traps” to collect personal data from victims, such as their name, address, CPF, bank account, and others. With this data, they can access victims’ accounts, make purchases with their credit cards, or access their social media profiles to request money from acquaintances and family members.
How does the scam work?
An example of a scam in vogue is an advertisement that proposes the sale of a booklet called “Guia do Nome Limpo” (Clean Name Guide), supposedly full of information about the “Desenrola” (Desenrola) program. The advertisement demands that the user share their data and make a payment for the booklet.
Other ads promise CPF consultation or special conditions to settle debts and clear the name, redirecting victims to fake chat links that request personal data.
Scammers also use popular platforms like YouTube to spread their scams. They invest in ads to appear at the top of search results, increasing their visibility and the likelihood of attracting more victims.
What does the government say about the “Desenrola” scam?
The Ministry of Finance advises that all negotiations under the “Desenrola” program take place directly with the client’s bank and, in the future, through the program’s official platform. Interested individuals must access the “Desenrola” program directly, without intermediaries.
What do companies say about the scam?
The Brazilian Federation of Banks (Febraban) also warns about possible scams associated with the “Desenrola” program. Febraban advises that citizens interested in renegotiating debts seek information only through the official channels of the banks participating in the program.
How to protect yourself from the “Desenrola” scam?
To protect yourself against the scam, it is crucial to follow some guidelines:
- Always check the source of the information. Be suspicious of messages and advertisements that promise overly enticing benefits.
- Do not click on suspicious links or provide your personal data without first verifying the authenticity of the source.
- If in doubt, contact your bank or consult the official “Desenrola” program platform.
Avoid intermediaries. The first phase will be aimed at people with a monthly income of up to R$20,000 and with debts with banks and financial institutions.
Who can benefit from the “Desenrola” program?
The “Desenrola” program is divided into two phases:
Read also: Learn all about Amounts Receivable
- The first phase is aimed at people with a monthly income of up to R$20,000 and with debts with banks and financial institutions. Renegotiation must occur directly with the bank.
- The second phase, which will begin in September, will be aimed at people with a monthly income of up to two minimum wages or registered with CadÚnico. The renegotiation will take place through an exclusive platform of the program.
It is crucial to stay vigilant and informed to avoid falling victim to the “Desenrola” scam on WhatsApp. Always remember to check the information you receive and only seek information from official sources.
