Introduction to MTU and Anti-Fraud Measures
The implementation of the Monto Transaccional del Usuario (MTU) and other new anti-fraud measures hinges on the technological capabilities of financial institutions to ensure user security and compliance with these regulations, according to Topaz, a firm specializing in digital financial solutions.
Understanding MTU
The MTU, which took effect at the beginning of October following a modification to the General Provisions Applicable to Credit Institutions by the National Banking and Values Commission (CNBV) in 2024, aims to strengthen the establishment of a transaction limit for monetary operations conducted by physical individuals.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence
“The key is to move from reaction to anticipation. Thanks to the use of artificial intelligence algorithms, financial institutions can monitor in real-time attempts to modify the MTU or suspicious transactions close to the limit, activating automatic alerts and preventive blocks,” explained Jorge Iglesias, CEO of Topaz.
Addressing Financial Fraud and Identity Theft
These measures are part of a strategy to curb financial fraud and identity theft, crimes that grew by 150% annually in Mexico in 2024, driven by the use of false identities, digital manipulation, and criminal networks exploiting technological innovations, as indicated by Topaz.
Technological Dependence for Effectiveness
However, beyond its preventive intent, technology experts warn that the effectiveness of this regulation largely depends on artificial intelligence (AI) usage and financial institutions’ ability to anticipate, rather than just react to new digital fraud modalities.
Growing Impact of Fraud
According to the 2024 LexisNexis Risk Solutions study, “The True Cost of Fraud in Latin America,” the total cost associated with fraud for financial institutions averages 4.08 times the amount of the affected transaction.
- Digital channels account for 51% of total fraud losses, surpassing physical fraud due to cybercriminals exploiting the anonymity of digital transactions for quick, hard-to-trace fraud.
In this context, the guidelines established by the CNBV through disposition modifications set minimum standards for creating a fraud management plan that strengthens fraud prevention.
Strengthening Security with Technology
The plan includes incorporating monitoring and continuous analysis mechanisms to detect suspicious behaviors, both internal and external. Topaz suggests that integrating multi-factor authentication systems and intelligent monitoring would enable financial institutions to bolster their security without compromising the digital user experience’s fluidity.
User Participation and Configuration
“The effectiveness of MTU depends on both technical robustness and user participation, as setting the limit is a simple yet strategic action. Financial institutions must ensure clear interfaces, timely notifications, and accessible processes to encourage the adoption of this measure,” explained Topaz.
