Cybersecurity at FIFA World Cup 2026: how to avoid online shopping scams

The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has already begun, and World Cup excitement is also spreading online. Tickets, jerseys, collectible albums, balls, and travel packages are appearing everywhere. But alongside the offers, digital scams are also on the rise.

That is why Mexico’s Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC) and Mexico City’s cybercrime police unit issued an alert to help prevent fans from falling victim to online scams in the months leading up to the tournament.

The World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19 in Mexico, the United States, and Canada, and authorities warn that cybercriminals are taking advantage of fans’ excitement and urgency to steal personal data and banking information.

What do the authorities recommend, and how can you enjoy the experience without unpleasant surprises? Keep reading.

Cyberattacks are increasing in Mexico

According to a report by Fortinet, Mexico recorded 58.1 billion attempted cyberattacks in 2025, making it one of the main targets in Latin America.

Experts explain that many criminal networks use Artificial Intelligence (AI), fake websites and sponsored ads to deceive users. These are often paired with messages such as “last tickets” or “limited-time offer”, designed to push people into impulse purchases.

A report by Kaspersky, cited by El Financiero, also warned that Mexican companies and users face almost 300,000 attempted attacks every day related to digital fraud and information theft.

Which scams are worrying the authorities?

The SSPC warned about several types of scams linked to the 2026 World Cup:

• Fake products or products that never arrive.
• Theft of personal and banking data.
• Fraudulent websites imitating official stores.
• Payments with no protection and no possibility of a refund.

Many of these scams spread through social media, private messages, and online ads that appear legitimate.

Recommendations for safer online shopping

Mexican authorities recommended following these measures before making any purchase related to the World Cup:

• Check the URL and avoid domains with errors or suspicious extensions.
• Be cautious with recently created websites or sites with no verifiable contact information.
• Avoid impulse purchases triggered by urgent messages such as “last items” or “today only”.
• Check the policies on returns, privacy, and company details.
• Read online reviews and reports from other users.
• Check whether the website or brand has previously been reported for fraud.
• Avoid sharing unnecessary data, such as an ID document number, passwords, SMS codes, or saving banking details on unknown websites.
• Avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks when making purchases.
• Update the operating system and antivirus software on mobile devices.
• Download apps only from official stores.

They also announced that the SSC Cyber Police Unit will be available to handle reports, questions, or suspicious activity through its official channels:

• Phone: +52 55 5242 5100, extension 5086.
• Email cibernetica@ssc.cdmx.gob.mx
• Official accounts @SSC_CDMX and @UCS_GCDMX.

eSIM: a safer way to stay connected during the World Cup

A simple way to reduce risks while traveling is to use an eSIM with mobile data to get internet in Mexico instead of relying on public Wi-Fi networks in airports, hotels, or cafés, which can often put your personal data at risk.

eSIMs in Mexico let you get online as soon as you arrive at your destination, without needing to replace your phone’s physical SIM card. Besides being practical for traveling between Mexico, the United States, and Canada during the World Cup, they also provide a more private and secure connection when buying tickets or accessing banking apps.

Other benefits of eSIMs

• You can get online as soon as you land, without looking for a physical store.
• One eSIM can work in several countries, which is useful when traveling between Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
• It helps you avoid excessive international roaming charges.
• You can activate it from your phone in just a few minutes.
• It makes it easier to use maps, transport apps, and messaging apps whenever you need them.

Key facts about the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup will be played from June 11 to July 19 in Mexico, the United States, and Canada. It will be the first edition with 48 national teams and also the first organized by three countries. The 2026 World Cup will not only attract fans, but also travelers who combine work and leisure and could become important for the local economy: digital nomads, whose numbers in the country will increase during this period.

Mexico’s host cities for the 2026 World Cup

• Mexico City: Estadio Azteca (83,000 spectators)
• Guadalajara: Estadio Akron (48,000 spectators)
• Monterrey: Estadio BBVA (53,500 spectators)

Mexico will make history by becoming the first country to host three World Cups, after the 1970 and 1986 editions.