Mexico's National Commission for the Protection and Defense of Financial Services Users warns of possible impersonation of four financial institutions

Mexico's National Commission for the Protection and Defense of Financial Services Users (CONDUSEF) issued an alert about possible impersonation of four financial institutions. The reported activity includes loan offers involving advance payment requests and websites using institutions' identities without authorization to offer financial products or services. In the MD TRANSCAPITAL case, a purported financial adviser requested an opening payment into a bank account belonging to an individual unrelated to the institution. People contacted using MEZTA SERVICIOS FINANCIEROS' name were asked to make an “investment contribution” during the loan application process. ADVENTUS CAPITAL identified a website using its corporate name, logo and institutional information without authorization and disclaimed responsibility for its offers or activities. CASHAHORA detected unauthorized use of its branding on a website offering mobile phones on credit. Although that portal appeared to lack functionality, its presence could confuse customers about the institution's identity and products. CONDUSEF advised consumers to verify institutions' registration and matching details in its SIPRES registry and confirm information through institutions' official channels. Consumers should avoid transfers to personal accounts, payments before signing a formal contract and advance fees to release, arrange or activate credit. They should also verify recipients before sharing identity documents, banking information, passwords or security codes.