The rise of cybercrime in Portugal is alarming, with the number of reported incidents skyrocketing in recent years. According to the Attorney-General, there were 2,124 cybercrimes reported in the country in 2022, including a significant number of crypto scams. This represents a 74% increase in reports from the previous year.
One of the most common tactics used by cybercriminals in Portugal is phishing, which involves duping victims with fake messages and emails that appear to be from legitimate sources. These attacks can happen on various platforms, including WhatsApp, and can be especially effective when they target inexperienced users.
In addition to phishing, cybercriminals are also increasingly using ransomware to extort money from victims. This involves hijacking computer networks and demanding payment in cryptocurrency in exchange for restoring access.
Despite these challenges, crypto adoption in Portugal continues to rise. The country is widely considered a haven for crypto traders, with Bitcoin and Ethereum being used in real estate deals. Some startups are also starting to offer tokenized real estate sales, which allow buyers to purchase fractional stakes in houses using blockchain technology.
While these developments are exciting, it is important to remain vigilant and take steps to protect against cybercrime. By staying informed and adopting best practices for online safety, we can help prevent criminals from taking advantage of unsuspecting victims.
