Don't be the next victim

Billions lost to scams. A cautious click today saves a costly mistake tomorrow.

Investment scams are always evolving. Fraudsters are sending links for enrolment of "investment plans" or "courses" that promise big returns. Behind these tempting offers, the links can secretly install malware on your device or steal data from your device. clicking on them can expose you to financial loss, identity theft, or something worse. Staying cautious and knowing what to watch for is extremely important.

Stay safe with the following tips:

1. Don't trust "verified" mentors that promise too much - Scammers often pretend to be experts or gurus, promising returns of 200% or recommending "bullish stocks" with 50% upside. They might say, "It's all free. Click here to join." DO NOT BE FOOLED.

2. Don't open links or download apps from untrusted sources - Only get investment courses or application forms from official websites or official app stores like Google Play or Apps Store. Avoid links sent through  group chats or messages from unknown senders.

3. Read the terms and conditions before signing up - Never pre-sign or sign any blank or partially completed forms. Know exactly what you are agreeing to before you commit, especially when it comes to investment plan or courses available.

4. Don't trust investment links from group chats - If you are invited to download an application or files from a group, DO NOT download immediately. Pause and verify these links as they could be malware in disguise or a way to steal your information.

Awareness is your first line of defense. Pause before you click and verify before downloading or investing. Stay one step ahead of scams that hide behind investment opportunities. 

Attractive links might carry hidden dangers. Protect your money and data by staying cautious.

Fake SMS

Beware of fake SMS purportedly from one of the banks informing that you have reward points to be claimed.

These fake SMSs are usually sent to unsuspecting victims, informing them of unclaimed reward points.

To claim the points, victims are required to click on a link that directs them to a website prompting them to enter credit/debit card details and personal information.

The fake websites and links may contain malwares designed to steal the victim’s credit/debit card details and personal information.

Stay alert and do not click the link in the SMS.

Always call the telephone number behind your card or refer to Bank's official website when in doubt.

Safer Transactions with Debit Cards

Protect your banking and personal details at all times especially for online transactions. Stay alert on your debit card transactions using these precautions. Never let your guard down when you make online purchases.

1. Always check the URL of the website. Ensure the "lock" icon or "https" is on the address bar.

2. Find a reputable online seller by reading reviews from other customers.

3. When transacting online, NEVER proceed with a purchase if you doubt the seller is genuine.

Here's some tips to protect your debit card transaction:

1. Secure your debit card details and PIN at all times, including at your place of residence.

• Avoid writing down or disclosing them anywhere
• Avoid using a PIN based on your birth date, identity card number, or anything easy to guess
• Don't allow anyone else to use your debit card or PIN

2. Notify the Bank as soon as the debit card in deemed lost, stolen, an unauthorized transaction has occurred, or the PIN has been compromised.

3. Notify the Bank immediately if there is an SMS alert of an unauthorized transaction.

4. Notify the Bank immediately if there is any change in the card holder's contact number.

5. Use the debit card responsibly and avoid fraudulent transactions.

6. Check your account statement regularly and report any discrepancies immediately.

Common tricks scammers used to target you:

• Phone - Scammers impersonating bank officers may call and ask for your TAC or account number
• Phishing - Scammers may send phishing links to trick you into exposing your personal details
• Free/Public Wi-Fi - Scammer may gain virtual access to your personal information sent over public networks
• Account Takeover - Malwares on your device may exploit your banking information that could then be used for fraudulent transactions

Stay Alert. Stay Safe.