If you received this message from Mercadona, the scam has begun.

Almost daily, police warn of numerous forms of fraud that are commonplace. In fact, it is likely that you have either been a victim of a scam or know someone who has been a victim of a scam. since these methods have multiplied in recent years thanks to the improvement of these techniques by scammers.

The latest police warning in this regard relates to one of the major Spanish brands: Mercadona. According to reports, scammers’ new strategy is to impersonate a reputable, established and widely recognized company, such as in this case Mercadona, in order to gain the user’s trust and gain access to confidential information, taking advantage of the fact that the consumer is not distrustful and not vigilant.

Therefore, the National Police advises everyone to pay close attention to who contacts you and from which numbers they receive messages, since these criminals are using the image and name of Mercadona illegitimately. and send emails, SMS or even make fake phone calls in which they may offer prizes or participation in competitions.

With this strategy, cybercriminals can obtain access to personal information (credit cards, ID, location, passwords…) which they can use for countless illegal activities: impersonating the victim and asking for a loan, making online purchases, gain access to the victim’s accounts, etc.

Such practices are very common and are called “phishing”but this time the criminals have added another twist as to make the message more attractive and to make the recipient fall into the trap, The main attraction was job offers under the Mercadona brand.

Another part of the coin, Mercadona, has already warned all consumers that it does not run sweepstakes or promotions, nor does it offer jobs through messages or similar channels. Thus, They asked everyone not to provide any requested information.

But how does no one notice this? Well, the reality is that the methods of carrying out this practice have improved significantly in recent times, and scammers are approaching customers using language consistent with their offers: with terms and words that may “hide” behind truthfulness.

Finally, if the victim clicks on the link sent via SMS, it will open a fake website that perfectly imitates the design, logo and style of the company in question, in this case Mercadona. And it is at this point that the fraud begins, because Users are asked to enter personal information: first name, last name, addresses, telephone or bank numbers, etc., with those already having an “open panel” to be able to do and undo whatever they please.