If you use Bizum to settle accounts with friends, make purchases between individuals, or pay in stores, you'll want to stay ahead of the most common scams. Although the service is robust and backed by banks, Most frauds exploit users' carelessness and haste., not technical glitches. Here you'll find warning signs, real-life examples, protective measures, and what to do if you've already been scammed.
First of all, it is important to clarify the essentials: When you expect to receive money, you don't have to enter credentials or accept requests.If something doesn't fit (you're asked for information, you receive a "request" instead of a deposit, or you're urged to act), be suspicious. With a little common sense and the right advice, you'll avoid disappointment and protect your finances.
Bizum is safe: where the real risk lies
Bizum was born complying with European and Spanish payment regulations and today follows the PSD2 standard, which implies Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) and two-factor authentication Whenever applicable. User validation is performed by your bank, using its own procedures: official app, SMS, biometrics, PIN, etc.
So why are there scams? Because, in practice, Criminals “push” the victim to make the mistake: Providing information over the phone, clicking fake links, or approving a payment request believing it's an incoming payment. This isn't sophisticated system hacking; it's social engineering.
When to be wary of Bizum transactions
If they are going to send you money, remember that you don't have to enter your credentialsIf you don't have Bizum activated, registration is always done within your bank's app, in a secure environment.
If you receive a shipping request, take a few seconds to read it: You can reject it from the banking app and confirm with the other person that they really sent it to you and for what reason.
When something doesn't add up (a charge you don't recognize, a strange notice, or an unknown movement), Open your bank's app and review the transaction details.If you confirm that it's improper, call your bank's customer service immediately so they can guide you and tell you how to file a claim.
Most common scams involving Bizum (and how they work)
“Reverse Bizum” in sales
Very typical in platforms like Wallapop or Vinted. The scammer says he's paying you via Bizum, but in reality sends you a collection requestYou think you're accepting a payment, and without realizing it, you send money. The solution: read the notification carefully and check if it says "payment received" or "request."
Products that do not exist
Another classic: an attractive ad at a lucrative price that requires advance payment via Bizum. After sending it, the seller disappearsTo nip this in the bud, use secure payment methods, be wary of impossible deals, and check the seller's reputation.
Fake prizes and raffles
You receive an SMS or email indicating that you've "won." The link points to a website that requests information or demands payment to release the prize. The key is to detect the artificial rush and the context: If you didn't participate in any draw, it smells bad.The legitimate entity does not pressure you or ask for money to collect.
Impersonation of institutions (TGSS, Treasury, Post Office, etc.)
Calls and messages claiming to be from Social Security or other agencies, announcing a refund, have proliferated. The auction is a notification that is actually a request for payment via BizumIf you accept, the charge will be processed immediately. Official agencies will not issue refunds via Bizum or ask you for sensitive information via text message or phone.
Scams via messaging and social networks
They pretend to be someone they know and tell them they sent you money by mistake; they ask you to "return it" with a Bizum. There are often scammers who also Identity theft on the contact's account. Please verify by another means (call) before moving a euro.
Job scams and fake courses
They promise express procedures or processes, or training with a guaranteed position, and ask for "fees" via Bizum. When you pay, there is no real service behind. Always demand verifiable information and clear refund policies.
Vishing: the telephone fraud that mixes voice and Internet
- Typical hooks: maternity/child support refund notice, suspicious activity, tax award.
- Mechanism: They impersonate your bank or Social Security; when the time comes, they send you a camouflaged Bizum request.
- Defending: Don't follow the link or call the SMS number; go through your organization's official channels.
The Internet Security Office (OSI) and cybercrime groups have warned about this type of attack. The general pattern is clear: Never share credentials or codes over the phone, even if they press you.
Smart online shopping: how to avoid fraud
Buy only from trusted sites with secure connections: look for “https” and padlock in the browser barBeware of newly created stores without verifiable reviews.
If the offer seems out of this world, it probably is. Avoid links from social networks that lead you to clones from well-known websites; it's better to type the address or use bookmarks.
Read the product description and the seller's name carefully, and when possible, check reviews and return policiesIn private sales, reduce exposure: cash on delivery or escrow platforms.
Security measures: adjustments and best practices
Set limits and know them. In Bizum, generally, The minimum per transaction is €0,50 and the maximum is usually €1.000.Many banks set aggregate limits, for example, €2.000 per day and €5.000 per month for transfers, and a maximum of 60 incoming transactions per month. These limits may vary by bank.
Activate and respect two-factor authentication. PSD2 requires double verification (SCA) and your bank implements these controls. Take advantage of them: automatic mobile lock, fingerprint, facial recognition, or a strong PIN.
Strengthen your passwords and don't reuse them. A password manager helps you create unique and complex keys for banking, email, and social media. No one (not even the bank) should ask you for your full password.
Protect your data: Do not share personal or financial information via calls, SMS, or emails. Don't follow unverified links. Keep your phone updated and protected against malware.
Before confirming any operation, read the SMS/notice carefullyIf it's a shipping request, the amount, the concept, and the reason must match.
How to identify a hot scam attempt
Verify the sender. If you receive a Bizum from an unknown person, check the number. If you don't recognize the person, Do not make any returns without confirming through an alternative channel.
Read "urgent" messages carefully. Neither your bank nor Bizum will ask you for them. account number, passwords, single-use SMS or card by phone or messaging. Be wary of urgency and emotional blackmail.
Check the transaction details: who sends or requests, exact amount and concept. Check your banking history in the app to confirm.
Be wary of unusual requests: advance payments, supposed express returns, overly insistent salespeople, or last-minute changes to your payment method. If it smells strange, stop. and contrasts.
Common mistakes you can avoid in seconds
Saving the recipient's number in your address book avoids confusion. Copying and pasting from an unknown phone number It is a breeding ground for mistakes. Better assign a name and avoid changing digits.
Include a clear concept in your Bizum transactions (up to 35 characters). This way, when you review transactions, You will identify at a glance what the payment was for and you will detect anomalies.
After paying or receiving money, open your bank account and verify that the transaction is correct. A 10-second review It saves you headaches if something has not been processed correctly.
What to do if you've been a victim of a scam
Act quickly. The first thing is contact your bankExplain the case and request protective measures (blocks, alerts, access checks). Ask if they have protocols or coverage for fraud.
Report the incident to Bizum through your bank. Although the payment It is not reversible from the platform, movements are recorded and this traceability helps with investigations.
Report the incident to the State Security Forces (FCSE) and, if your personal data has been exposed, notify the Spanish Data Protection Agency. Provide everything you have: Scammer's phone number, accent, supposed location or any other details.
Collect evidence: Keep complete chats, screenshots, emails, SMS, and receipts. Don't delete conversations; can be compared in court.
Expert appraisal and expert report: when it is in your interest
In complex processes or when you want to maximize recovery options, a Computer Expert can track digital footprints, prove the technique used (phishing, vishing, impersonation) and consolidate technical evidence.
Un Economic Expert It provides flow analysis and assessment of economic damage, useful in bank fraud and organized scams. Both professionals can issue an Expert Report with legal validity to accompany the complaint and the procedure.
FAQs
Can a Bizum payment be canceled after it has been sent?
No. Bizum operates in real time and, once authorized, It is not cancelable from the appIf it's been fraud, act quickly with your bank and report it.
I sent money by mistake, how do I get it back?
There is no “cancel” button. Try contact the recipient and request a refundYour bank can mediate, but it depends on the recipient's wishes and/or the legal process.
I have been charged fraudulently, what steps do I take?
Report it to your bank and explain that it is a fraudulent transaction. Depending on the case and the medium, you can dispute card charges or open a claimAt the same time, file a complaint with the police.
I received a Bizum from a stranger
Don't move it or spend it. It could be a mistake or part of a scheme. Contact your bank and wait for instructions.Forwarding money without verification can get you into legal trouble.
What are the limits of Bizum?
Overall, Minimum €0,50 and maximum €1.000 per transaction, daily and monthly sending limits (e.g., €2.000/day and €5.000/month), and maximum number of transactions received (e.g., 60/month). These may vary by institution.
The technology is safe, but the weak link is often the human one: Read what you agree to, verify identities, and take your time.With these guidelines, you'll minimize the risk and know how to react if something goes wrong.
