Civil Guard Warns of Rising Cyber Scams Targeting 2026 World Cup Viewers
Spanish authorities are warning of a surge in cybercrime campaigns using fraudulent 2026 World Cup streaming services to steal banking credentials and infect user devices.
Excitement for the 2026 World Cup is growing, but the Civil Guard is warning that this enthusiasm has created a new financial risk. Authorities have reported a rise in cybercrime campaigns that use the promise of free match broadcasts to infect devices and steal money.
The scam typically involves fraudulent streaming apps or IPTV services that claim to offer free access to the tournament. In reality, these files are malicious software. Once installed, they give hackers control over your device, allowing them to track your activity, steal banking credentials, and transfer funds from your accounts.
These incidents show how cybercriminals use high-profile events to trick people. Experts strongly advise watching matches only through official broadcasters, such as RTVE or DAZN in Spain. You should only download apps from official stores like Google Play or the App Store and avoid clicking on links or ads promising free access to premium content.
If you believe you have been targeted or have shared financial information on a suspicious site, take action immediately. Authorities urge victims to save any evidence of the fraud and file a formal report with the police. This is essential to help recover losses and assist law enforcement in tracking down these criminal networks to prevent further attacks during the tournament.