MB WAY scam messages: made-up examples
Criminals pretend to be MB WAY, the Portuguese payment app, or a buyer who wants to pay you with it. They try to get your MB WAY code or PIN, or to get you to link their phone number to your account at a cash machine. The messages below are made up. MB WAY did nothing wrong; criminals copy its name.
Example, made up
MB WAY: Detetámos uma operação suspeita. A sua conta será bloqueada hoje. Confirme imediatamente os seus dados em hxxps://mbway-apoio[.]example
Example, made up
In English: "MB WAY: We detected a suspicious transaction. Your account will be blocked today. Confirm your details immediately at hxxps://mbway-apoio[.]example"
Example, made up
Olá, quero comprar o seu artigo. Pago já por MB WAY. Vá a uma caixa Multibanco e diga-me o código de confirmação que lhe aparece. Contacto: 9XX XXX 000
Example, made up
In English: "Hi, I want to buy your item. I'll pay now by MB WAY. Go to a Multibanco cash machine and tell me the confirmation code you see. Contact: 9XX XXX 000"
The red flags
- The link doesn't go to mbway.pt. Words like "apoio" (support) stuck to the name are made to look official.
- Threats ("blocked today") and "immediately" are there to rush you.
- Nobody needs you at a cash machine to pay you. Following a "buyer's" steps there can link their phone to your account.
- Your MB WAY codes and PIN are only for you. Never share them.
What to do
- Don't open the link or follow steps at a cash machine for someone else.
- If you shared a code or PIN, call your bank straight away on the number on your card.