INSS Biometrics Scam!

Did you know that millions of Brazilian retirees are falling victim to frauds related to INSS biometrics? In fact, this alarming reality is affecting beneficiaries across the country. However, many retirees remain unaware of the dangers surrounding the misuse of this technology.

Unfortunately, scammers are exploiting seniors’ lack of familiarity with technology to carry out various types of fraud. For example, from unauthorized association fees to unapproved payroll loans, these schemes are diverse and increasingly sophisticated.

In this article, we’ll explore the main types of fraud involving INSS biometrics, as well as show you how to protect yourself and what to do if you fall victim to these scams. Therefore, keep reading to discover essential information that can safeguard you and your family.

What Is INSS Biometrics and Why It Matters

To begin with, it’s crucial to understand what biometrics is and its role in the INSS system. Essentially, facial biometrics is a technology that uses unique facial features to securely verify your identity digitally.

As a result, the INSS implemented this system to streamline services for beneficiaries, such as proof of life and the approval of payroll loans. In addition, the technology aims to combat fraud and ensure that only the rightful benefit holder can access services.

However, like any technology, it can be targeted by criminals looking for loopholes in the system. For this reason, it’s essential to understand the risks and know how to protect yourself effectively.

The Main Types of Biometric Fraud

Currently, there are several types of scams related to INSS biometrics. Below, we’ll detail the most common ones so you can recognize and avoid them.

1. Parallel Biometrics: The Virtual Signature Scam

Surprisingly, some organizations have created their own biometric systems to validate retirees’ identities. For instance, these entities took advantage of a temporary INSS policy that allowed the use of parallel biometrics between 2024 and early 2025.

In practice, this worked as follows: the organizations created their own websites with virtual signature and biometric systems. Subsequently, they used this data to approve unauthorized association fee deductions without the retirees’ true consent.

As a result, thousands of beneficiaries discovered unauthorized deductions from their benefits months later. Moreover, many had not even authorized any type of association or membership.

2. System Duplication: A Costly Loophole

For a period, the INSS operated with two different registration systems simultaneously. While the new system required mandatory biometrics, the old system continued to function without this requirement.

This situation created a loophole exploited by unscrupulous associations. In fact, criminals registered millions of retirees using fraudulent electronic signatures in the old system. Consequently, they managed to charge unauthorized fees for months without detection.

Fortunately, the INSS identified the issue and unified the systems. However, many beneficiaries had already suffered financial losses.

3. Biometric and Document Forgery

Even more serious, some criminals have gone as far as forging signatures and biometric data to obtain benefit deductions. In these cases, scammers used copies of identification documents to bypass security systems.

Typically, these criminals obtained the documents through data leaks or even purchased them on the dark web. Afterward, they used this information to create fake registrations and take out loans in retirees’ names.

Unfortunately, by the time victims discovered the fraud, they often had multiple debts in their names. Therefore, constant vigilance is critical to spotting suspicious activity.

4. Proof of Life Scams: The Most Common Fraud

Undoubtedly, this is the most frequent scam, affecting the largest number of beneficiaries. Essentially, criminals pose as INSS employees to steal retirees’ personal information.

Here’s how the scheme works: scammers contact victims via phone, SMS, or WhatsApp, claiming that proof of life must be completed urgently. Next, they request personal information, passwords, or even ask the victim to download suspicious apps.

With this information, criminals can take out payroll loans, perform fraudulent proof of life, or sell the data to third parties. Therefore, never provide personal information over the phone or via messages.

INSS Actions to Combat Fraud

Given this scenario, the INSS has implemented several measures to protect beneficiaries and combat fraud. Below, we’ll outline the main actions taken by the institute.

Mandatory Facial Biometrics in the Meu INSS App

After detecting thousands of fraud cases, the INSS made facial biometrics mandatory through the Meu INSS app. Currently, services like unlocking payroll loans can only be completed after biometric validation.

In this way, the institute ensures that only the rightful benefit holder can authorize important transactions. In addition, this measure has significantly reduced the number of fraudulent loans.

Automatic and Secure Proof of Life

Currently, facial biometrics through the federal government’s app has become the official method for proof of life. The process is simple: if there’s regular activity in the beneficiary’s records, proof of life is completed automatically.

Otherwise, if there’s no activity for 12 months, the beneficiary is notified to complete proof of life manually. As a result, the process is both safer and more convenient for everyone.

Clear Communication About Official Channels

To avoid confusion, the INSS has repeatedly emphasized that it does not contact beneficiaries via SMS or WhatsApp to request proof of life. Moreover, the institute does not send employees to homes to collect documents or perform procedures.

Therefore, any contact of this nature should be considered suspicious immediately. When in doubt, always reach out directly to the INSS through official channels.

How to Protect Yourself from Biometric Fraud

Now that you know the main scams, it’s critical to understand how to protect yourself. Below, we’ve listed essential steps to keep your benefits and personal information secure.

Use Only Official INSS Channels

First and foremost, it’s crucial to use only official channels for any benefit-related services. The legitimate channels are:

• Meu INSS App (with registered facial biometrics)
• Official INSS Website (meu.inss.gov.br)
• Customer Service Hotline at 135

In addition, never download apps from unknown sources or click on links received via SMS or WhatsApp. Always access services directly through official app stores or the government website.

Be Wary of Unsolicited Contact

Always remember: the INSS never requests personal information, passwords, or banking details via contact. Therefore, if you receive a call, SMS, or WhatsApp message asking for such information, be suspicious immediately.

Moreover, the institute does not conduct proof of life via phone or messages. If you receive such contact, do not provide any information and end the communication.

Regularly Check Your Benefit Statement

One of the most effective ways to detect fraud is to regularly check your benefit statement. By doing so, you can quickly identify any unauthorized deductions.

To do this, access the Meu INSS app regularly and review:

• Unauthorized association fees
• Payroll loans you didn’t request
• Changes to your registration you didn’t make

If you spot any irregularities, contact the INSS immediately at 135.

Protect Your Personal Information

Never share your personal documents, passwords, or banking information with third parties. Even if someone claims to be an INSS or bank employee, do not provide this information.

In addition, avoid leaving copies of documents in public places or sharing them on social media. Such information can be used by criminals to carry out scams.

What to Do If You’re a Victim of Fraud

If you suspect or confirm you’ve been a victim of fraud, it’s essential to act quickly. Below, we’ve outlined the steps to take in this situation.

1. Contact the INSS Immediately

First, call 135 or access the INSS Ombudsman to report the situation. Provide all relevant details, including dates, amounts, and any pertinent information.

The INSS can block unauthorized deductions and investigate the fraud. In addition, the institute can guide you on the next steps.

2. File a Police Report

Next, visit the nearest police station to file a police report. This document is essential to prove you were a victim of fraud and can be used later to dispute unauthorized charges.

Moreover, the police report initiates an investigation that may help identify and punish those responsible.

3. Dispute Unauthorized Charges

If you’ve been charged unfairly, you have the right to dispute those amounts. To do so, gather all possible documentation, including bank statements, receipts, and the police report.

Subsequently, seek a lawyer specializing in social security law or assistance from the Public Defender’s Office. These professionals can help you recover improperly charged amounts.

4. Monitor Your CPF

After a fraud, it’s important to monitor your CPF regularly to detect new scam attempts. You can do this through free services like the Banco Central’s Registrato and SPC/Serasa checks.

By doing so, you’ll be alerted if someone tries to take out loans or open accounts in your name.

Warning Signs: How to Spot a Scam Attempt

To protect yourself effectively, it’s crucial to recognize the warning signs of a scam attempt. Stay alert for the following red flags:

• Urgent calls or messages requesting personal information
• Promises of benefit increases or extra perks
• Requests for payment to release supposed benefits
• Suspicious links for downloading apps or accessing fake websites
• People posing as INSS employees during unscheduled home visits

If you notice any of these signs, do not proceed with the interaction and report it immediately.

The Importance of Digital Education for Retirees

One of the biggest challenges in combating fraud is the lack of technological familiarity among many retirees. For this reason, it’s vital that family and friends help seniors understand how INSS digital services work.

Some key actions include:

• Assisting with registering facial biometrics in the Meu INSS app
• Teaching how to check benefit statements regularly
• Explaining the most common types of scams and how to spot them
• Supporting important processes, such as loan applications

By doing so, we create a protective network that significantly reduces the risk of fraud.

Conclusion: Constant Vigilance Is the Best Protection

As we’ve seen throughout this article, frauds involving INSS biometrics are varied and increasingly sophisticated. However, with proper information and constant vigilance, it’s possible to protect yourself effectively.

Always remember to use only official INSS channels, be wary of unsolicited contacts, and regularly check your benefit statement. In addition, keep your personal information secure and never share sensitive data via phone or messages.

If you become a victim of fraud, act quickly by contacting the INSS and filing a police report. By doing so, you increase your chances of recovering lost funds and help authorities combat these crimes.

Finally, share this information with retired family members and friends. After all, knowledge is the best weapon against scammers, and together we can build a safer, more protected community.

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