Urgent: Colombia Sees Surge in Digital Theft – New Payment System Exploited by Scammers
BOGOTÁ, Colombia – December is traditionally a time for giving, but in Colombia, it’s also become a peak season for digital theft. A staggering 69,000+ cybersecurity complaints were filed in December 2024 alone – a nearly 20% jump from the previous year – as criminals increasingly exploit a new instant payment system to swindle unsuspecting citizens. This breaking news underscores a critical need for heightened vigilance as online shopping and financial transactions surge during the holiday season. Archyde.com brings you the latest on this developing threat and how to protect yourself.
Image: Illustration of online security threats.
The “Key” System and the Rise of Phishing
The new “key” system, designed for faster and more convenient payments, is unfortunately becoming a prime target for fraudsters. Cybersecurity expert Sergio Esteban Quevedo, a professor at the University of La Sabana, warns that a particularly insidious phishing scam is gaining traction. “We are receiving messages that say, ‘someone transferred two hundred thousand pesos to you, please accept this transfer,’” Quevedo explained in an interview with Infobae Colombia. “It’s important to clarify that to receive money through the keys, it is not necessary to accept anything.”
The scam works by luring victims to fake websites that closely resemble legitimate banking portals. Once users enter their credentials, criminals steal credit card information and bank login details. Quevedo emphasizes that victims often willingly provide this information, believing they are simply completing a transfer acceptance process. This highlights a dangerous gap in public awareness regarding the new system’s functionality.
Beyond Phishing: Credit Card Fraud and Identity Theft
Phishing isn’t the only threat. Colombian authorities are also seeing a rise in traditional credit card fraud, where unauthorized transactions are made using stolen card details. Quevedo advises avoiding calls from unknown numbers and never sharing sensitive information like passwords, card numbers, or issue dates. He strongly recommends using digital wallets for purchases, as these often require dual authentication, adding an extra layer of security.
Image: Illustration of a secure digital wallet transaction.
Identity theft is another growing concern. Criminals are leveraging stolen information to open fraudulent credit accounts or hijack social media profiles to solicit money from contacts. Quevedo notes that these schemes often begin with victims receiving unsolicited verification codes for products or services they didn’t request.
Protecting Yourself: A Proactive Approach
Staying safe requires a multi-faceted approach. Quevedo recommends regularly monitoring your credit report using tools like “My Credit Data” (Mi Data de Crédito) to detect any suspicious activity. Understanding the limits of your financial products and being extremely cautious about sharing personal information – especially over the phone or email – are also crucial.
Key Takeaways for Immediate Protection:
- Never accept transfers you didn’t initiate: The new “key” system doesn’t require acceptance of incoming payments.
- Verify website legitimacy: Always double-check the URL before entering any personal information.
- Use digital wallets: Benefit from the added security of dual authentication.
- Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your credit report and bank statements.
- Report suspicious activity immediately: Contact your bank and authorities without delay.
If you suspect you’ve been a victim of fraud, Quevedo urges you to immediately contact your bank to block your cards and report the incident to the authorities. Time is of the essence, as criminals can quickly drain accounts.
As Colombia navigates this surge in digital crime, staying informed and proactive is paramount. Archyde.com will continue to provide updates on this evolving situation and offer resources to help you protect your financial well-being. For more information on cybersecurity best practices and the latest fraud alerts, visit our security section.
