Panamanian artists warn of new impersonation and payment scam

Musicians and artists in Panama are on alert following a new wave of scams targeting their industry. Criminals are impersonating reputable employers and public figures to solicit services, send fraudulent payment confirmations, and then demand reimbursements for alleged overpayments.

The warning gained traction after artist Tavo Flores shared his experience on social media. Flores reported receiving a message from someone posing as a prominent businessman and politician, requesting a performance date. The supposed client claimed to have made a deposit and provided a payment receipt, but Flores confirmed with his bank that no funds had been received.

Flores explained the scam's modus operandi: the fraudsters send a fake transfer confirmation and subsequently ask the artist to return a portion of the money, citing a supposed mistake, such as depositing an amount larger than agreed upon. "When they come with that story that I sent you money and then they tell you that my secretary made a mistake and sent you too much money, be careful and watch out for that," Flores cautioned.

Following Flores's disclosure, businessman and politician Popi Varela corroborated the warning, noting that this scam has been circulating for months. Varela stated that criminals previously used his identity to defraud restaurants, and now the same tactic is being applied to artists and musicians. He urged vigilance against suspicious payment or hiring requests. To avoid falling victim, artists are strongly advised to verify all deposits directly in their bank accounts, rather than relying solely on screenshots, and to confirm the identity of individuals requesting services or making payments.