ULS Braga warns of fraudulent SNS24 SMS and "smishing" scam

The Local Health Unit (ULS) of Braga warned on Monday about the circulation of fraudulent text messages sent in the name of SNS24, claiming that a tax enforcement process has allegedly been opened over a debt to the State.

What the fraudulent SNS24 SMS claims

In a statement, ULS Braga says the message cites alleged non-compliance, sets a 48-hour deadline for payment, and includes a Multibanco entity and reference linked to an amount of 105,49 euros.

"This communication is false and has no connection whatsoever to SNS24. SNS24 does not notify users about outstanding payments by SMS, nor does it send an entity and reference to collect amounts," it stresses.

Why ULS Braga says it is a scam ("smishing")

ULS Braga reports that this is "an attempted fraud which, by creating urgency through a short deadline and the apparent credibility of the sender, aims to persuade people to make an improper payment".

Guidance from ULS Braga for anyone who receives these messages

ULS Braga is urging all users who receive this type of message not to make any payment and not to enter the entity and reference details shown in any payment platform.

It also advises deleting the message and, if there is any doubt about the authenticity of a communication related to the SNS or to the ULS, users should contact official channels directly to confirm.

"This type of fraud scheme, known as "smishing", has been reported with some frequency by users of the National Health Service, seeking to exploit people’s trust in public health bodies. ULS Braga reiterates that it never requests payments in this way and reminds everyone of the importance of being extra vigilant when faced with messages of this kind," the statement concludes.