Fiji Banks Warned of Rising Online Fraudulent Activities
The Fiji banking sector has sounded the alarm over an increasing number of fraudulent activities in online banking, urging customers to take extra precautions to protect their personal and financial information.
Rise in Sophisticated Attacks
According to ANZ Bank, one of the major banks operating in Fiji, criminals are using sophisticated methods to steal sensitive data and compromise accounts. The bank has implemented various security measures to prevent unauthorized access, including:
- Two-factor authentication
- Encryption
- Firewalls
- Automatic time-outs
Customer Responsibility
However, customers also have a crucial role to play in keeping their banking information secure. ANZ is advising customers to:
- Keep passwords, PINs, and security codes confidential
- Avoid sharing them with anyone
- Regularly change them
Online Shopping Safety Tips
When shopping online, the bank recommends:
- Only using trusted websites that display a locked padlock icon and have “https” in their URL
- Avoiding saving credit card details or passwords at online shops
- Never using public computers or wifi for banking purposes
Scam Alerts
ANZ is warning customers to be vigilant against scams, which often involve:
- Fake emails or phone calls asking for personal information or login credentials
- Deleting suspicious emails and never clicking on links that may compromise accounts
Regular Monitoring
To monitor their banking activities, customers are encouraged to:
- Regularly check their statements for any unfamiliar transactions
- Report any irregularities to the bank immediately
FFIU Alert
The Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit (FFIU) has also sounded an alert over the rise in online fraud, urging banks and financial institutions to be more vigilant in identifying and reporting suspicious transactions.
Additional Precautions
As a result of these warnings, ANZ is advising customers to take extra precautions when conducting online banking, including:
- Logging off after each session
- Using strong passwords
- Keeping devices and software up-to-date
Remember: never share your login credentials or sensitive information with anyone. Stay vigilant and keep your banking information secure!