The Instituto del Fondo Nacional de la Vivienda para los Trabajadores (Infonavit) has issued a serious warning to Mexican workers regarding fraudulent agents, known as “coyotes,” who pose as official Infonavit representatives. These scammers convince beneficiaries to withdraw their housing funds, only to steal up to 40% of the money.
During a press conference, Octavio Romero Oropeza, Director General of Infonavit, emphasized the importance of recognizing and avoiding these scams. He urged workers to consult official channels before making any financial decisions regarding their Subcuenta de Vivienda.
How the Infonavit Scam Works
These fraudulent schemes operate under false promises of easy cash access. Scammers claim they can secure an immediate loan using an individual’s Infonavit housing fund, but instead, they take a large cut of the money, leaving victims with significant financial losses.
Common Tactics Used by Fraudsters
- Fake phone calls – Scammers call workers, introducing themselves as Infonavit advisors.
- Misleading advertisements – They use social media and flyers to promote «quick cash loans» from Infonavit.
- Bogus legal documents – Victims are given false paperwork, making them believe the transaction is legitimate.
- Pyramid schemes – Some frauds involve multiple victims buying and reselling homes under fraudulent contracts.
Who Is at Risk?
Victims are often Infonavit beneficiaries who:
- Are approaching retirement and need access to their funds.
- Are misinformed about their housing benefits.
- Have urgent financial needs, making them vulnerable to high-pressure sales tactics.
Official Warning: Do Not Trust Unofficial «Advisors»
Romero Oropeza played an audio recording during the press conference, exposing a scammer named Julio César Juárez, who falsely claimed to work for the “Instituto de Asesores del Infonavit”—an organization that does not exist.
“They tell you, ‘Your Infonavit credit in cash, for whatever you need,’ but that’s not true. The workers’ money is strictly for housing and pensions,” stated Romero Oropeza.
Protecting Your Infonavit Housing Fund
1. Verify Before You Act
Only use official Infonavit channels:
- Infonavit Website: www.infonavit.org.mx
- Infonavit Customer Service: Call 800 008 3900
- Official Offices: Visit an authorized Infonavit center
Never share personal details over the phone or online with unverified sources.
2. Know Your Housing Fund Rights
Your Subcuenta de Vivienda funds are only accessible for:
- Purchasing a home through a legitimate Infonavit loan.
- Retirement savings, which workers receive in full upon retirement.
You cannot withdraw Infonavit funds for cash use before retirement.
3. Report Suspicious Activity
If someone offers to «help» you withdraw your funds, report them to:
- Infonavit Fraud Prevention Hotline
- Federal Consumer Protection Office (Profeco)
- Mexican Cyber Police for financial fraud cases
Final Thoughts: Stay Informed and Protect Your Savings
The rise of Infonavit fraud schemes highlights the importance of financial awareness. Workers must stay vigilant against deceptive practices that can jeopardize their housing and retirement funds.By relying on official Infonavit resources, verifying financial transactions, and reporting suspicious activities, beneficiaries can safeguard their savings and avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
