Related videos:
The Cuban financial company FINCIMEX S.A. issued a public alert after detecting a scam circulating on social media that uses its name and image to try to deceive potential customers with a supposed fuel delivery service in Cuba.
The warning was published on the official profiles of the entity, which denounced that the maneuver is part of a strategy to obtain personal and financial data from users.
"Once again, unscrupulous individuals are identified who attempt to confuse by using our image or our financial products to trick potential consumers,” stated the institution in its message.
According to the entity, the fraud typically begins with attention-grabbing posts that promise some attractive service, followed by an invitation to share personal information to finalize the supposed transaction.
“Then comes the invitation to share personal data and finalize the fraud,” warned FINCIMEX.
A fake offer that takes advantage of scarcity
The alert arose after a post circulated on social media showing a fuel truck with the Cupet logo, offering gasoline "delivered to your home anywhere in Cuba."
The announcement set the price at 3 dollars per liter and displayed a contact number for those allegedly interested.
The post claimed: “The Fincimex Importer currently offers gasoline by the liter at 3 USD delivered to your home anywhere in Cuba without any issues”, accompanied by an image of a fuel truck.
Amid the fuel shortages and long lines at the service stations on the island, a purported direct home delivery service may seem appealing to many drivers, which increases the risk of some individuals falling for the scam.
FINCIMEX, however, was emphatic in denying any connection to that type of offer. "It is reiterated that Fincimex S.A does not market any goods or services other than financial ones,” the institution emphasized.
The entity emphasized that users should not share sensitive information with third parties that use their name or image.
“We warn our customers never to share personal data, financial information such as credit card numbers, sales receipts, or their identity card,” stated the financial institution.
He also reminded that their only official communication channels are their institutional profiles on social media platforms such as Facebook or Instagram.
FINCIMEX also assured that when it detects this type of fraud, legal actions are taken against those responsible.
"In all identified cases, legal actions are being taken against these individuals," the entity affirmed.
A key financial institution in the Cuban system
FINCIMEX is one of the most important financial institutions associated with the state-owned business conglomerate CIMEX.
Its functions include the management of family remittances sent from abroad, financing for exports, financial leasing, and the administration of prepaid cards.
In recent years, it has played a significant role in the currency-related payment and transfer systems within the country.
Reactions on social media
The official alert sparked dozens of comments among users who reacted with a mix of disbelief, sarcasm, and criticism of the fuel situation in Cuba.
Some internet users warned about the danger of this type of deception and urged caution.
"Many gullible people are scammed by unscrupulous individuals. Be careful, do not share personal information or details of cards or accounts," commented a user.
Others were skeptical about the supposed home delivery of gasoline.
"One has to be quite bold to believe that. Regardless, thank you very much, it's always good to have a warning."
There were also those who questioned the context that makes such announcements credible amid the country's energy crisis.
"It's foolish to believe that a fuel can be delivered in a pipe right to your doorstep,” noted a commentator.
Some comments, however, indicated that fraud can indeed have real consequences.
A user reported that someone they know fell for a similar scam.
"A friend of mine was told that they could pay through Zelle, he ordered 100 liters, and somehow his WhatsApp got hacked. His relatives paid the money, and he is still waiting for the gasoline," he recounted.
Other internet users took the opportunity to express broader criticisms regarding fuel access on the island and the current sales system.
Meanwhile, the episode highlights how real images—such as a fuel pipe—can be taken out of context to create false offers that exploit the everyday needs and shortcomings of the population.
In light of this, the basic recommendation remains the same: always verify the source before sharing personal information, transferring money, or trusting offers that circulate on social media.
Filed under: