Uruguay Scams: Online, Investment & Tourist Fraud Guide
Common scams in Uruguay and how to report them to the Ministry of Interior cybercrime unit and your bank.
Emergency number: 911 — verify on official sources.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Uruguay has one of Latin America's highest rates of internet connectivity and digital banking adoption, which makes it a target for phishing, online shopping fraud, and investment scams. The Ministry of Interior operates a dedicated Cybercrime Unit (Unidad de Cibercrimen) accessible by email at [email protected] and phone (+598) 2030 4625. Citizens can also file police reports through the online portal at denuncia.minterior.gub.uy. The national cybersecurity centre CERTuy accepts reports of cyber incidents. The emergency number is 911. Reporting to your bank immediately after any suspected financial fraud is the most critical first step.
Common scams
- Phishing and smishing impersonating Uruguayan banks
- Online shopping non-delivery and fake e-commerce sites
- Investment and crypto platform scams
- WhatsApp account hijacking
Tourist-specific scams
- Unofficial taxi overcharging in Montevideo and Punta del Este
- Distraction theft in busy city areas
- Fake travel booking sites for beaches and resorts
Online shopping scams
- Phishing targeting online banking credentials
- Fake social media shops and marketplace non-delivery
- Crypto and investment platform fraud
Job scams
- Fake job offers requiring upfront payments for documentation
- Task scams via messaging apps
Romance scams
- Dating-app grooming leading to cryptocurrency investment requests
- Long-distance romance with escalating financial requests
Investment scams
- Fake forex and crypto trading platforms
- Pyramid and multi-level recruitment schemes
How to report a scam here
- Contact your bank immediately if money was transferred
- File a police report online at denuncia.minterior.gub.uy or call 911
- Report cybercrime to the Unidad de Cibercrimen at [email protected] or call (+598) 2030 4625
- Preserve all digital evidence: screenshots, messages, transaction records
Local reporting & protection links
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Bank & payment guidance
Contact your bank immediately using the official number on your card or banking app. Uruguayan banks can attempt to freeze fraudulent transfers most effectively in the first few hours.
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot all messages, profiles, websites and payment pages
- Save transaction references, account numbers and crypto wallet addresses
- Keep emails with full headers where possible
- Note dates, times, names and phone numbers used
Frequently asked questions
How do I report cybercrime in Uruguay?
Contact the Ministry of Interior's Cybercrime Unit (Unidad de Cibercrimen) at [email protected] or call (+598) 2030 4625. You can also file a police report online at denuncia.minterior.gub.uy or visit any police station.
Sources
- National police and cybercrime portals (verify on official sites)
- FTC / Action Fraud / Scamwatch consumer guidance