Guide to avoiding the “golpe da maquininha” scam when paying with Pix in Brazil. Learn the most common scams, how to prevent them, and what to do if it happens to you while paying with Pix from belo.

Pix in Brazil: practical and safe if you know what to look for

If you’re in Brazil —or you’re about to travel there—, it’s very likely you’ll pay with Pix.

Pix is the instant payment system of the Central Bank of Brazil: it works by scanning a QR code, entering an amount, and confirming from your phone.
It’s fast, simple, and everywhere.

As with any widely used payment method, it’s worth knowing about some scams that circulate in tourist areas so you can avoid them and pay with peace of mind.

In this guide, we cover:
— what the golpe da maquininha is
— what other scams pretend to be Pix
— how to prevent them in seconds
— and what to do if something goes wrong

What is the “golpe da maquininha”?

It’s a common scam on beaches and in tourist areas.

It works like this:

You buy something cheap.
When it’s time to pay, someone distracts you (sometimes there’s an accomplice).
Meanwhile, they change the amount on the terminal.
You end up approving a purchase that’s much more expensive than what you agreed to.

Regla de oro:
→ verificá siempre el importe antes de confirmar

Regla de oro:
→ verificá siempre el importe antes de confirmar

Regla de oro:
→ verificá siempre el importe antes de confirmar

Regla de oro:
→ verificá siempre el importe antes de confirmar

That second of review is the best way to avoid incorrect charges.
If they rush you, stop. If someone talks to you while you’re paying, look at the number again.

Watch out: scams that “disguise” themselves as Pix

Besides the golpe da maquininha, there are other variations worth keeping on your radar.

1) Fake “support” on WhatsApp

They message you with logos and texts that look official:
— “technical issue”
— “security verification”
— “preventive block”

The goal is to get your data and take control of your account.

Importante:
→ Pix y el Banco Central de Brasil no solicitan información por WhatsApp ni mensajes privados.
Ante cualquier duda, usá siempre canales oficiales

Importante:
→ Pix y el Banco Central de Brasil no solicitan información por WhatsApp ni mensajes privados.
Ante cualquier duda, usá siempre canales oficiales

Importante:
→ Pix y el Banco Central de Brasil no solicitan información por WhatsApp ni mensajes privados.
Ante cualquier duda, usá siempre canales oficiales

Importante:
→ Pix y el Banco Central de Brasil no solicitan información por WhatsApp ni mensajes privados.
Ante cualquier duda, usá siempre canales oficiales

2) QR code that makes you install an app

They offer you “benefits for tourists” and ask you to scan a QR code to download an app.

⚠️ Risk: it may install malicious software.

Remember:
— Pix does not require you to download its own app
— avoid installations from unknown links or QR codes

Quick checklist: 30 seconds before paying

Keep it in mind 👇

1. Read the amount carefully
If they rush you or try to distract you, stop and look at the number again.

2. If the screen looks odd, change the method
Dark or broken screens, or requests to “retry,” are common signs of scams.

3. Don’t let anyone pay for you
If you use a card, don’t hand it over: tap it or insert it yourself.

If it happened to you: what to do without wasting time

1) Save evidence

If you can, keep the receipt, a screenshot of the transaction, and the merchant details (name, location, date, and time).

2) Contact support from the belo app

Whether the payment was made with card or with Pix, the first step is the same.

From the belo app:
→ tap your profile
→ go to the Help Center

There you’ll be able to contact official support and receive guidance depending on the case.

3) Depending on the payment method

— If it was with a card:
In belo there is a process to dispute charges. From the Help Center you’ll be able to report the card and file the corresponding claim.

— If it was a Pix payment:
The support team will tell you the next steps and review the transaction through official channels.

In all cases, you’re not alone: there’s a team available to help you.

Paying with Pix in Brazil with belo: simple, clear, and backed by support

belo is an Argentine app, designed so Argentines can travel and pay in Brazil like a local.

We were the first app to launch Pix for Argentines, and that experience now lets us offer a simple, transparent payment method with real support.

How does it work?
— You deposit pesos or dollars into your belo account
— You travel to Brazil
— You pay with Pix at any business that accepts it

At the moment of payment:
— you scan a Pix QR code or send money by CPF, email, or phone number
— the balance is converted to reais instantly
— you see exactly how many pesos it equals before confirming

That review step is key: it gives you control and lets you pay calmly, without surprises.

If you want to learn more about how Pix with belo works, click here and access all the information about belo Pix.

Frequently asked questions

Does Pix need a special app download?
No. Pix doesn’t require you to install its own app. Be wary of QR codes or links that ask for downloads; you only need the belo app.

What do I do if I see a charge I don’t recognize?
Go to the Help Center from the belo app (profile → Help Center) and contact support to get assistance depending on the type of payment.

(*) The information in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice.