There is a new public alert from Banco de Portugal to protect consumers from possible financial fraud, identifying two companies that are not authorized to operate in the country. At issue are Ajax Sousa Pontes do Espírito Santo and the company Ajax Sousa Pontes do Espírito Santo, Unipessoal Lda., which, according to the regulator, carry out financial activities reserved for supervised institutions without being duly authorized.
According to Banco de Portugal, entities have been acting in their own name or on behalf of third parties, providing payment and funds transfer services irregularly. The notice aims to alert the public to the fact that these operations are not protected or guaranteed by the national financial system.
Entities outside the law
The central bank clarifies that any payment or money transfer service can only be provided by duly authorized and registered entities. This authorization is provided for in article 4 of the Legal Framework for Payment Services and Electronic Money, established by Decree-Law no. 91/2018, which defines the rules for who can carry out these activities.
According to the regulator, Ajax Sousa Pontes do Espírito Santo and its company are not on the list of authorized financial institutions, which means that any service provided in its name is illegal and could constitute fraud.
The risk for consumers
Banco de Portugal warns that using unsupervised entities represents a high risk of fraud or total loss of money, as these companies are not subject to the transparency, security and protection rules imposed on official institutions.
To avoid falling into this type of scheme, it is essential to always check the legitimacy of financial entities before making any payment, transfer or investment. The regulator recommends consulting the official list of authorized institutions, available on the Banco de Portugal website, where it is possible to confirm the legality of any company or intermediary.
How can you protect yourself
Experts recommend adopting habits of verification and prudence whenever faced with an investment, credit or fund transfer proposal.
- Check the entity’s registration on the official Banco de Portugal website.
- Be wary of promises of quick or high profits, especially when made through digital means.
- Never share personal or banking details via social media or unsolicited messages.
- Contact Banco de Portugal or the Judiciary Police if you suspect fraud.
According to , prevention is the best defense. No entity can ask you for money in the name of a financial service without being authorized, and any irregular operation must be immediately reported to the competent authorities.
The warning comes in a context of increasing online financial scams and schemes that exploit consumer trust, often through names and brands that imitate legitimate institutions.
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