Digital fraud on behalf of public entities continues to increase in Portugal, and Social Security is now one of the most recent targets, with fraudulent messages circulating via SMS and other platforms, improperly using the body’s official image to deceive citizens.
In recent days, the Social Security Institute (ISS) issued an official warning about false messages being sent in its name, with the aim of getting people to click on dangerous links and provide personal or banking details.
Messages create a false sense of urgency
According to the statement released by the organization, these messages usually include a link to a false page that imitates the Social Security Portal, where alleged amounts owed are presented, according to Notícias ao Minuto.
The scheme relies on psychological pressure, mentioning immediate payments and threatening late payment interest or other additional costs, all based on non-existent debts.
Social Security leaves clear warning to citizens
The authorities’ advice is straightforward: “If you receive a message of this type, do not click on the link or provide any personal or banking details. This is a phishing action, which aims to obtain confidential information or extort money.” The Institute reinforces that these messages are not sent by Social Security and their sole purpose is to allow their authors to obtain amounts illegitimately.
Links and SMS requests are always fake
Another point highlighted in the alert is unequivocal: “Social Security never sends links or asks for bank details via SMS or other messages”. Any such request should be viewed as fraudulent, even if the message appears credible or uses logos and language similar to the official one.
Data update only on official channels
According to the public body, updating the IBAN or other personal data must be done exclusively through the Social Security Portal, after secure authentication with a password.
In case of doubt, the recommendation is to consult only official Social Security channels and never trust unsolicited contacts, says the same source.
New security reinforcement when accessing the portal
In parallel with this notice, Social Security announced that it will implement a second verification step on access to its portal for users who do not use the Digital Mobile Key. The measure aims to reinforce the protection of personal data and align the system with the best international cybersecurity practices.
According to the information released, this new layer of security offers an extra barrier against unauthorized access, increases the protection of personal accounts and helps prevent interruptions in future access.
By activating the system, users validate their contacts and significantly reduce the risk of fraud, according to the previously cited source.
How to activate the new security system
The process is described as simple and quick. Simply authenticate to the portal with your NISS and password, follow the instructions displayed on the screen and confirm your email and cell phone contacts. From that moment on, whenever you access the portal, a temporary code will be sent to confirm the user’s identity, reinforcing access security, says .
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