A new burla scheme, identified by Executive Digest as the “Fake Invoice Trick”, has been reported in several Portuguese cities, especially in supermarkets and shops. At first glance it only seems to be a mistake in the buying bead, but the practice can cost consumers, compromise tax benefits and even make it difficult for exchanges or warranty complaints.
According to the same publication, the coup is based on the delivery of a receipt that seems legitimate but does not correspond to the official registration of the purchase. In practice, the customer pays normally, but the invoice he receives has no legal validity.
How the scheme works
According to Executive Digest, the process is simple but effective. In some cases, the number of taxpayers is not included, even when requested, and other values or products appear adulterated. Although the transaction exists, the invoice delivered is not registered in the official system.
This type of practice may be associated with internal schemes to handle stocks, hide sales or divert money. For the consumer, the consequences are immediate: the purchase does not appear on the E-Factment portal, which prevents deductions in the IRS, and without a valid invoice there is no evidence for any exchanges or guarantees.
Real examples and associated risks
Situations have already been reported in which customers just realize the problem weeks later. In Lisbon, a consumer noticed that several purchases had never been registered in e-start, although always indicated the NIF. In Braga, a client found that the value in the bead was different from what was in the payment terminal.
These examples reveal how the scheme can go unnoticed as the talons have normal appearance. The risk is double: in addition to possible financial losses, the consumer is vulnerable to tax and legal situations.
How to protect
Experts advise you to always check the talons before leaving the store. Confirm that the taxpayer number has been included correctly and if the amount corresponds to the paid is an essential first step.
Another caution is to regularly consult the E-start portal to detect purchases that have not been registered. If irregularities arise, it is recommended to save evidence: photograph the bead, conserve payment proof and record bank movements.
What to do in case of suspicion
Faced with evidence of fraud, the consumer must contact the store immediately. If the situation is not resolved, the next step is to file a complaint with ASAE, the entity responsible for the inspection. Executive Digest underlines that justifications such as “system error” should be received with caution, especially if the problem is repeated.
A bead with serious risks
The so -called “false bill trick”, an expression used by, shows how even a simple bead can hide serious risks. More than saving proof, it is essential to be aware, question irregularities and act quickly so as not to lose money or tax benefits.
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