Bolivia Blocks Over 13,500 Phones, Cuts 11,000 Lines Over Digital Scams

Bolivia's Authority for Regulation and Fiscalization of Telecommunications and Transport (ATT) has taken decisive action against digital fraud, blocking more than 13,500 mobile devices and suspending nearly 11,000 phone lines in the first seven months of the year. These measures were implemented following 16,821 complaints received by the 'Block the Scam' platform between January 1 and July 17.

The primary method employed by fraudsters involves impersonating telecommunications operators. These scammers trick victims into revealing personal information, verification codes, or granting access to bank accounts and other sensitive applications. Of the complaints filed, 9,374 were deemed valid, while 7,004 were rejected for failing to meet requirements, and 443 are still under review.

Analysis of the suspended lines reveals that Telecel S.A. (Tigo) accounts for the largest share of reported cases, with 67%. Entel S.A. follows with 15%, Nuevatel PCS de Bolivia S.A. (Viva) with 12%, and international operators with 6%. The departments of La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba reported the highest number of scam-related complaints.

The ATT urges the public to exercise caution and distrust unsolicited calls or messages requesting personal data, passwords, or verification codes, even if they appear to originate from legitimate companies. The 'Block the Scam' platform remains available for reporting fraudulent activities to enhance digital security nationwide.