Fraud against micro-entrepreneurs: How to avoid scams and protect your business

By Beorange

27 de março de 2025

The Individual Microentrepreneur (MEI) is one of the main entry points for the formalization of small businesses in Brazil. With a simplified CNPJ, the possibility of issuing invoices, and access to social security benefits, this category attracts thousands of entrepreneurs every year. However, this popularity has also made MEIs frequent targets of scams and financial fraud.

In this article, you will understand what the most common frauds against MEIs are, how to protect yourself, and what to do if you become a victim of a scam.

Main scams targeting MEIs

Criminals use various strategies to deceive microentrepreneurs, exploiting the lack of information and excessive bureaucracy. Here are the most common scams:

1. False invoices

One of the most common scams involves the issuance of fraudulent invoices, sent via email, postal service, or even WhatsApp. Many of them pose as charges for the DAS Guide (Document for the Collection of the National Simple), which must be paid monthly by the MEI.

How to avoid: Always generate the guide directly on the Entrepreneur Portal (gov.br) and check the beneficiary's data before making any payment.

2. Fake websites that imitate the Entrepreneur Portal

Many fraudulent websites offer services for MEIs, charging exorbitant fees for procedures that are free, such as issuing the MEI Certificate or the Annual Declaration of the National Simple (DASN-SIMEI).

How to avoid: The official MEI website always ends in ".gov.br". Be wary of platforms that charge for free services.

3. Registration update scam

Many scammers send messages requesting the "update of MEI data", threatening to block or cancel the CNPJ if not completed. By clicking on the provided link, the entrepreneur may be redirected to a fake site or have their data stolen.

How to avoid: The Federal Revenue Service and Sebrae do not contact you via WhatsApp or SMS to request registration updates. Always check the information directly on the official portal.

4. Unjustified charges for "mandatory services"

Another common scam is issuing false charges for non-existent fees, such as "maintenance of MEI registration" or "mandatory union contribution".

How to avoid: The MEI does not need to pay any additional fees beyond the monthly DAS. Any charges outside of that should be carefully scrutinized.

5. Easy loan scam

Scammers offer fake credit lines for MEIs with low interest rates and quick approval. However, they require upfront payments of "service fees" to approve the credit, and the money is never released.

How to avoid: Banks and financial institutions do not require advance payments to grant credit. Be suspicious of offers that seem too good to be true.

How can MEIs protect themselves?

Now that you are aware of the most common scams, here are some essential tips to protect yourself:

Always access the official MEI website: All information and services are available on the portal gov.br/mei.
Beware of unexpected charges: If you receive an invoice or email with a strange charge, consult an accountant or check on the government portal.
Never provide your data over the phone or WhatsApp: Scammers try to collect personal information to commit fraud.
Check the recipient before paying an invoice: Confirm the CNPJ and name of the beneficiary before making any payment.
Have a trusted accountant: A professional can help ensure that all tax obligations are met correctly, avoiding unpleasant surprises.

What to do if you become a victim of a scam?

If you realize you have fallen for a scam, take the following measures immediately:

File a police report (BO): This can be done online at the virtual police station in your state.
Notify your bank: If payment has already been made, contact your bank to try to block the transfer.
Report fraudulent websites: If you have been deceived by a fake site, report it to the Federal Revenue Service and Procon.
Keep an eye on your CNPJ: Regularly access the MEI portal to check for any unauthorized changes or charges.

Secure formalization with Beorange

Want to open or regularize your MEI safely and without worries? Beorange offers specialized advisory services for microentrepreneurs, ensuring that you have access to all the advantages of MEI without the risks of scams or unjustified charges.

Our services include: