Portugal's National Communications Authority, ANACOM, has issued a public warning urging consumers to adopt safer digital habits following a rise in online scams.
The regulator cautioned that extra precautions are necessary during routine daily internet activities, including checking emails, shopping online, and browsing social media networks.
A central element of the alert involves fraudulent messages designed to create a false sense of urgency. Emails, text messages, or phone calls that claim an account is about to be blocked, demand immediate payment, or promise prizes should be treated with suspicion.
ANACOM advised consumers never to click on unverified links or share personal data, passwords, or authentication codes when receiving unexpected requests. If users have any doubts about a communication, they should verify the details through the official contact channels of the organization involved.
Password Protection and Device Updates
To reinforce account security, the authority recommended creating long passwords that differ across every online service. It also urged users to activate two-factor authentication and emphasized that verification codes sent via text message or security apps must never be shared.
Maintaining updated operating systems, applications, and connected equipment is another vital defense measure. ANACOM noted that routine software updates frequently repair security vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could otherwise exploit.
ANACOM functions as the independent statutory regulator for electronic communications and postal services in Portugal. Two-factor authentication provides an extra layer of account protection by requiring two distinct forms of identification, such as a password and a single-use passcode, before granting access.
Online Shopping Safety and Fraud Targets
For online shoppers, the watchdog warned against overly attractive promotions. Such offers often lead consumers to fake websites created to steal personal credentials or banking data.
The regulator advised consumers to access online stores, banking portals, and payment services exclusively through official websites or official mobile applications. Internet users should carefully check the website address in the browser bar before entering any sensitive details.
The recommendations were issued during European Cybersecurity Month, an annual initiative dedicated to raising digital security awareness across European nations. The agency highlighted that simple preventative actions can effectively stop data theft and account compromises.
The alert comes as official data revealed that nearly 3,000 online scams targeting elderly citizens were recorded in 2025. European Cybersecurity Month takes place every October, encouraging individuals and institutions across the European Union to strengthen their digital security habits against evolving cyber threats.
