Brazil’s Federal Revenue Service has warned of digital scams involving fake messages impersonating the agency to steal personal and financial data, often citing alleged IRPF 2025/2026 issues affecting CPF status. It reiterated that it does not send links or request sensitive information via SMS or messaging apps, urging taxpayers to use only official channels and remain alert to fraud attempts.
Brazil’s Federal Revenue Service has issued a warning about new digital scams after receiving reports of fraudulent messages in which criminals impersonate the agency to deceive taxpayers into accessing fake links and disclosing personal information or making improper payments.
The Federal Revenue Service stated that the messages typically use an alarming tone and claim the existence of supposed pending issues related to Income Tax (IRPF 2025/2026). These messages allege that such issues could compromise the taxpayer’s CPF status. The fraudulent consequences cited include blocked financial transactions, inability to use PIX, restrictions on bank accounts, credit cards and investments, and inclusion in registries such as Serasa, SPC Brasil and the Central Bank of Brazil.
How the scam works
Scammers send text messages or instant messages containing suspicious links that direct recipients to fake websites designed to imitate official government portals. The messages instruct users to immediately access the link to “regularise” their situation or check alleged pending issues. In some cases, victims are told to interact with the message to activate the link, which increases the risk of data theft.
Guidance from the federal revenue service
The Federal Revenue Service in Brazil emphasised that it does not send messages containing links for resolving pending issues, nor does it request personal, banking or payment information via messaging apps or SMS. It reiterated that tax information must be consulted exclusively through official channels available on its website: www.gov.br/receitafederal.
Attention to the main recommendations:
- Be wary of messages with an urgent tone or threats of blocking financial services.
- Do not click on links received via SMS or messaging apps that are not from official sources.
- Always check the website address before accessing any page related to public services.
- Never provide personal, banking, or tax information on unverified websites.
In case of doubt, citizens should seek assistance directly through the official channels of the Federal Revenue Service.
The Federal Revenue Service in Brazil reaffirmed its commitment to digital security and urged taxpayers to remain vigilant against fraud attempts, helping to prevent electronic scams.
