The National Bank warns about 5 modalities of recurring scams and offers tips to identify and prevent them. Know how to protect yourself.
The Banco de la Nación has issued an alert about various modalities of scam that are affecting users. These criminal practices not only seek to steal money, but also obtain personal and banking information. It is crucial to be aware of these scams, learn how to identify themand protect yourself to avoid falling into the hands of criminals.
He National bank, in its periodic security alerts, identified five main types of scams that are recurring among users. Each of these practices has specific methods and clear objectives.
What types of fraud exist, according to the Banco de la Nación?
He National bank has identified five main types of scam that are recurrent among users. These are the Lebanese loop, the card change, the cloning of cards, the payment over the counter with counterfeit bills and the winning call.
- Lebanese lasso: This method involves tampering with ATMs. Scammers insert a device into the card slot to retain the card. Afterwards, they obtain the victim’s PIN to make withdrawals.
- Card change: In this scam, criminals pose as friendly people or bank employees. Taking advantage of a moment of distraction, they exchange the victim’s card for a fake one.
- Card cloning: Fraudsters use skimming devices to copy information from the magnetic stripe of cards into counterfeit ATMs or payment terminals.
- Payment over the counter with fake bills: This modality involves the use of counterfeit bills in over-the-counter transactions. Criminals want the cashier not to detect the forgery at the time of the transaction.
- The winning call: Here, criminals call victims informing them that they have won a prize, requesting personal and banking information to supposedly deliver the prize.
Depending on each type of fraud, how can I prevent it?
Each type of fraud has characteristics individuals, and knowing them is the first step to prevent these frauds. Below are ways to identify and avoid each of these fraudulent practices.
- Lebanese lasso: Before using an ATM, check the card slot. If you notice something out of the ordinary, do not use that ATM and report the situation to the bank. If your card is detained, contact the bank immediately and do not accept help from strangers.
- Card change: Never accept help from strangers while using an ATM. Make sure your card is always in sight. If someone tries to distract you, cancel the operation and leave.
- Card cloning: Inspect ATMs and payment terminals before using them. Cover the keyboard when entering your PIN and review your account statements regularly for any unrecognized transactions.
- Payment over the counter with fake bills: Familiarize yourself with the features of genuine banknotes, such as watermarks and embossing. In operations involving large sums of cash, request a thorough review of the bills.
- The winning call: Be wary of calls that inform you about prizes that you have not participated in. Never reveal personal or banking information over the phone. Verify the authenticity of the call by contacting the aforementioned entity directly through its official channels.
How can I report attempted fraud?
Reporting a fraud attempt is essential to prevent other users from falling into the scam trap. criminals. Users are recommended to follow these steps if there is any suspicion of fraud:
- Contact the bank: Immediately inform your bank about the attempted fraud. Provide as many details as possible about the incident.
- File a formal complaint: Go to the nearest police station and file a formal complaint. This will help authorities investigate and take action against those responsible.
Source: Larepublica

Alia is a professional author and journalist, working at 247 news agency. She writes on various topics from economy news to general interest pieces, providing readers with relevant and informative content. With years of experience, she brings a unique perspective and in-depth analysis to her work.