The fake relative scam: “Mom, I changed my number”
Someone pretends to be a child, grandchild or other relative, says they changed their number and soon asks for an urgent Pix payment.
The message comes from an unknown number, often with a photo of the relative copied from social media: “Hi Mom, I changed my number. Save this one.” Then comes a short, affectionate conversation designed to build trust.
Soon after comes the request: a bill due today, an overdue payment, a problem with the bank. The person asks for a Pix (Brazil’s instant payment), promises to pay it back the next day and insists it is urgent. Sometimes the Pix key is in someone else’s name, with a ready-made excuse.
The scam works because it combines affection and urgency. Falling for it is not naivety: it is set up precisely so you have no time to think.
How to protect yourself
- Before making any payment, call your relative’s old number or reach them another way.
- Ask a question only the real person would know the answer to.
- Be suspicious of a Pix key in someone else’s name and of requests to keep it secret.
- Agree on a code word with your family for emergencies.
- If you have already paid, call your bank right away and ask them to open a MED (Pix Special Refund Mechanism) request.