Alert about a new scam involving Mercado Pago: what to do if you receive money without a reason

A new scam method is circulating on Mercado Pago and can generate a debt for you without you noticing.

Cybercriminals simulate transfers made by mistake and get victims to return money of fraudulent origin.

How does this scam with Mercado Pago work?

The scheme begins when someone receives an unexpected transfer. Minutes later, a message arrives via WhatsApp or social media.

The person claims to have transferred the money "by mistake" and asks you to return it as soon as possible.

Where is the deception?

The money usually comes from stolen accounts or cloned cards. When you return the amount, the scammer cancels the original transfer.

The result: you lose that money and you can even end up with a debt within the app.

How can you identify a scam of this type?

According to cybersecurity specialists, there are several signs that can alert you:

• Unsolicited transfer: you receive money without having made a sale or prior agreement.
• Immediate contact: the supposed sender urgently contacts you via social media.
• Emotional pressure: the person speaks to you in a friendly or desperate tone so you do not think too much.

What should you do if you receive a suspicious transfer?

• Do not return the money automatically. Evaluate the situation calmly.
• Do not respond via WhatsApp or social media. Only use official contact channels.
• Report the transaction from the Mercado Pago app or website.
• Check your transactions and who the sender of the money was.
• Activate security measures such as two-factor authentication.