GNR records 193 scams using fake police or ASAE identities
The 193 cases recorded between January 2024 and 31 May 2026 show how criminals use apparent official authority, urgent demands and spoofed numbers to obtain money or data.
Archived after its publication day. Search retains this original briefing for background and accountability.
Archived 12 September 2026A name or number displayed on a phone is not proof of identity. End the contact, verify the institution through a number you find independently and preserve evidence if money or data were requested.
- The fresh total concerns impersonation of police and ASAE officials; it is narrower than all false-employee scams.
- GNR says official bodies and banks do not ask for security codes, passwords or immediate transfers by phone or SMS.
- A suspected attempt can be reported even when no money was lost.
Pressure and authority are part of the method
A caller may claim that an account, fine or investigation requires immediate action. Spoofing can make a legitimate-looking name or number appear on the screen, so the display itself cannot authenticate the caller.
Do not give personal or banking data, click a link or transfer money. End the conversation and call the institution using its official website, card or published directory.
Act quickly after a suspected attempt
Save messages, email headers, call records, links and transfer receipts. If money moved, contact the bank immediately to ask whether funds can be blocked or recalled.
Report the incident at a police station or through Portugal's Queixa Eletrónica portal. Call 112 only when there is an immediate threat or an emergency in progress.
What you can do now.
- 01
Stop the contact and verify the organisation independently.
- 02
Tell the bank immediately if money or credentials were exposed.
- 03
Preserve evidence and make a police report.
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