To better understand how these scams operate and to provide a common framework for analysing them, Fundación Maldita.es and Faktograf have developed a typology based on real evidence drawn from reports sent by users through the Maldita.es chatbot(+34 644 22 93 19). These cases are received through the Disinformation Management System (DMS), the tool used by the organisation to collect and organise reports sent by the public about possible deceptions, hoaxes or scams encountered in everyday life.
This empirical basis has been essential for identifying patterns, analysing how scammers’ tactics evolve, and underpinning the methodological framework developed in the report "A Typology of Digital Scams: A Framework for Detection, Classification, and Prevention " , a document that identifies the main types of deception in the online environment and explains how the use of artificial intelligence has multiplied their reach and sophistication.
Based on this foundation, a flexible and scalable typology has been designed that combines technical analysis, which groups fraud according to the channel or technique used (for example, phishing, vishing or QRshing), with narrative analysis, which classifies them according to the type of story or pretext employed, such as fake promotions, non-existent prize draws or extortion attempts.
The report proposes applying this typology in brand protection and risk management strategies, as well as in media, digital and financial literacy programmes that help prevent online scams. It also includes recommendations for companies, authorities, platforms and fact-checking organisations in order to strengthen transparency, collaboration and shared responsibility in the fight against online fraud.
The document is part of the project “Exposing Scams: A Corporate and Civic Response”, funded by the Civic Innovation Fund (CIF), a joint fund managed by THE CIVICS Innovation Hub with the support of the ERSTE Foundation.
You can consult the full report aquí.