Online scams have become increasingly common, demanding greater attention to the links and online content we interact with daily. Cybercriminals are constantly creating new methods to deceive people for financial gain, ranging from falsified payment receipts to fake technician impersonations. In Brazil, around 71% of the population has already fallen victim to this type of crime, which shows the need for caution when clicking on links in WhatsApp messages, emails, or SMS, as well as avoiding sharing personal information with strangers. To reduce risks, it is essential to understand how these scams work, recognize their main types, learn what to do if you are targeted, and adopt preventive measures to protect your data and avoid financial losses.
This article is part of a series on digital security. You can read the other texts here.
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Spiked Drink Scam – “Boa Noite Cinderela”
One of the most dangerous scams in Brazil’s nightlife is known as the Spiked Drink Scam, locally called “Boa Noite Cinderela”. Criminals mix powerful drugs into drinks or food to make victims unconscious. Once sedated, victims are robbed—and in some cases, overdosing has led to deaths. In Rio de Janeiro, police recently arrested a suspect accused of targeting British, French, and Argentinian tourists.
– How It Happens
• Criminals approach victims in bars, nightclubs, or tourist areas.
• They secretly add sedatives to drinks, food, or even gum.
• Within minutes, the victim becomes dizzy, sleepy, or loses consciousness.
• While unconscious, the victim is robbed of money, phones, cards, or even has banking apps accessed.
– How to Protect Yourself
• Never accept drinks, food, sweets, or gum from strangers.
• Only accept beverages that were opened in front of you.
• Keep your drink with you—don’t leave it on the table or bar.
• Go out with friends and watch out for each other.
• Be alert in tourist areas, bars, and clubs, especially if you are alone.
• Use strong protections on your phone and banking apps.
• If you suddenly feel very dizzy or drowsy, ask for help immediately from a trusted person or staff.
– What to Do if It Happens
• Get medical help immediately if you think your drink was spiked.
• Report the case to the Civil Police as soon as possible.
