Cuban Content Creator Exposes Zelle Payment Scam Targeting U.S. Residents from Cuba

Osmany Pimentel Valdés, a well-known content creator on social media, has brought attention to a new digital scam affecting both Cubans on the island and those living abroad.

In a recent video, Pimentel shared his experience of falling victim to a scam that cost him $950 while trying to send a generator from the United States to his relatives in Cuba.

How the Scam Unfolds

The fraudulent scheme typically starts with a relative in the United States searching for products on platforms like Marketplace or Revolico to send to Cuba. Upon contacting a supposed seller, they are asked for the recipient’s number in Cuba.

Using social engineering tactics, the scammer then requests a Google location from the Cuban recipient and sends a fake PIN, asking for it to be forwarded back. This allows them to hack into the recipient's WhatsApp account.

Understanding Social Engineering

Social engineering is a method of digital deception where cybercriminals exploit human psychology to obtain passwords, financial information, or personal data. They often pretend to be someone trustworthy, playing on the victim's anxiety or lack of technical know-how to achieve their fraudulent goals.

Preventing the Scam

Once the Cuban phone account is cloned, the scammer, posing as the family member, contacts the buyer in the U.S., assuring them everything is set for the payment to be made via Zelle. However, the purchased item is never delivered.

Pimentel advises, “Before making a purchase to send to Cuba, always use video calls. Scammers are impersonating Cuban relatives to take the money without delivering the goods.”

Experts emphasize buying only through reliable agencies and being cautious of any deals that request codes or quick transfers without visual confirmation.