tech
April 27, 2026
Alert in Colombia: Scam with the 2026 FIFA World Cup album spreads via WhatsApp and Instagram
Reference images - this is not the final art. Photo: Panini
TL;DR
- A sophisticated digital scam network is operating in Latin America, targeting collectors of the official World Cup sticker album.
- Criminals have created at least 20 fraudulent domains, with 13 specifically targeting Spanish-speaking countries.
- In Colombia, the scam is distributed through WhatsApp messages and Instagram ads, offering products at significantly lower prices than official markets.
- Fraudulent websites are designed to precisely replicate official stores, including "Add to Cart" buttons, shipping calculations, and contact information.
- Victims are directed to make money transfers, often to third-party intermediaries in fintech companies, with funds quickly dispersed to hinder recovery.
- Experts state criminals exploit fan emotions, urgency, and Fear Of Missing Out (FOMO).
- Recommendations include using official website addresses directly, verifying URLs, enabling bank transaction alerts, and using cybersecurity software.