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Cuban authorities captured those responsible for a digital scam that affected citizen Yoel Rodríguez Ramírez, a resident of the municipality of Taguasco in the province of Sancti Spíritus, after his identity was impersonated on a digital platform on March 30.
Following the report filed by the victim with the National Revolutionary Police (PNR), a task force was activated in coordination with officials from the Popular Savings Bank (BPA), which enabled the tracking of the fraudulent operation and the identification of the alleged perpetrators, according to the state-run outlet Radio Sancti Spíritus.
With the documentation in hand, the research team traveled to the province of Holguín, where, with the support of the local PNR, they were able to locate and apprehend the alleged perpetrators of the crime.
During the interrogations, one of the individuals involved confessed to their participation, which allowed for the recovery of the defrauded money: 230,000 Cuban pesos, equivalent to about 1,000 MLC, according to Lieutenant Danyer Tamayo Legrat, who is in charge of the investigation.
The money was returned to the victim last Tuesday during a public event held at the BANDEC branch in Taguasco, in the presence of local officials. This appears to be an attempt to demonstrate institutional effectiveness in the face of a crime trend that is becoming increasingly common in the country.
Dr. Yipsy Cruz Santos, the wife of the affected individual, expressed her gratitude for the authorities' response, but also made it clear that such scams are not isolated incidents in the area.
"It has already happened before; let's see if the lesson is learned and no more people fall into the trap," he warned.
The individuals involved are undergoing criminal proceedings, while investigations remain open to clarify possible ramifications.
The case once again highlights the weakness of digital security systems in Cuba, as well as the vulnerability of citizens to the rising tide of financial crimes and identity theft.
Amid the rise in financial crimes and digital scams in Cuba, several testimonies have highlighted the variety of methods used to deceive citizens and tourists.
One of the most representative cases was shared by the Cuban Reinaldo Suárez, who
This practice, spread through online community groups, reveals digital vulnerability and the lack of effective prevention mechanisms.
Another concerning incident was reported involving an individual who like Transfermóvil or EnZona, managing to deceive users through fake messages that mimicked official support channels.
This type of scam highlights the weaknesses in the digital education of Cubans and the ease with which scammers can access sensitive financial information.
From an external perspective, the Spanish influencer Judit Gómez shared her experience in Cuba on TikTok, where she highlighted some of the most common scams that tourists face: from informal currency exchanges to the sale of counterfeit cigars and the use of taxis without clear rates.
Although she did not feel insecure during her stay, she warned about the impact that these practices have on the country's image and on the visitors' trust.
Frequently Asked Questions about Scams and Digital Security in Cuba
How was the scam of 230,000 pesos in Cuba carried out?
The scam was carried out through the digital identity theft of Yoel Rodríguez Ramírez on a platform, allowing the scammers to access his funds and steal 230,000 Cuban pesos.
What measures did the Cuban police take to resolve this scam?
After the report, the National Revolutionary Police (PNR) coordinated with the Popular Savings Bank to track the fraudulent operation, identify those responsible, and recover the stolen money.
How does digital security affect Cuban citizens?
The vulnerability of digital security systems in Cuba exposes citizens to risks such as identity theft and financial scams, creating concern and distrust in digital media.
What is the public perception of police effectiveness in dealing with crime in Cuba?
The Cuban population criticizes the effectiveness of the police, as although some cases, such as the scam involving Yoel Rodríguez, are resolved successfully, there is generally a perception of inaction and inadequacy in the response to the growing wave of crimes.
What community actions are observed in response to crime in Cuba?
In light of the growing insecurity and distrust in the authorities, Cuban citizens have begun to take justice into their own hands, capturing and handing over criminals to the police in an effort to protect themselves and demand justice.
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