Pix is undoubtedly one of the safest payment methods in Brazil. Simple, instantaneous, digital, and with multiple layers of security, it has established itself as the primary payment method in the country. Precisely because of its success, fraudsters seek ways to exploit it. But how does Pix handle cases of fraud? Is there a process for disputing payments?

In this article, we will discuss the Special Refund Mechanism (MED), the procedure used by Pix users to report fraud and request reimbursement of amounts.

In general, the MED can be compared to the chargeback process for credit card payments, but there are significant differences between the two.

Frauds in Pix

Unfortunately, stories of fraud are encountered daily. The types of scams vary widely: investments with promises of high returns, products and services sold at prices far below market value, job offers with high salaries and flexible hours, etc.

How MED Works

Upon realizing they have been a victim of fraud, the payer must contact their bank. Once the request is opened, the payer's bank will notify the recipient's bank of the transaction through a system integrated with the Central Bank of Brazil. The recipient's bank analyzes the transaction, and the funds are blocked until the analysis is completed. If the claim is accepted, the Pix amount is refunded, and the account holder is notified about the amount debited from their account. Otherwise, the amount is unblocked.

Important! Requests for refunds via MED should not be made in cases of commercial disagreements or errors in entering Pix data.

The payer can only request a refund in cases of fraud or system failures in one of the institutions involved in the transaction. In such cases, the recipient may have the Pix amount refunded at the request of the payer's institution or their own institution.

In Cases of Confirmed Fraud, How is the Money Returned?

The refund request does not guarantee the recovery of the sent amount, even when the recipient institution agrees with the request. The Pix amount may be refunded in full or partially, depending on the available balance in the account to be debited, and may occur in one or more installments until reaching the total transaction amount.