Fraudulent Activities in Online Banking on the Rise in Cape Verde

Warning Issued by General Association of Banks (GAP)

The General Association of Banks (GAP) has issued a warning to customers about fraudulent emails circulating in Cape Verde, using the names and logos of local commercial banks. The scammers are requesting verification of customer bank details, prompting the GAP to issue recommendations to avoid falling prey to these schemes.

Recommendations to Avoid Falling Victim to Scams

• Never access your bank’s portal through links: Instead, type the full address in your browser. • Be wary of emails requesting access to the Bank’s website through a link: Legitimate banks never contain links or software for immediate installation. • Keep passwords confidential: Passwords are strictly personal and confidential, and should never be revealed to anyone.

Phishing Tactics Used by Fraudsters

Phishing is a common tactic used by fraudsters, where they impersonate trusted individuals or companies to acquire personal data, including passwords and financial information. The GAP warned customers not to:

• Click on links contained in suspicious emails • Open attachments that may contain malware

Additional Recommendations from the GAP

• Never use bank access codes for other online activities: Keep your bank credentials separate from other login details. • Be cautious when accessing accounts through public computers: Avoid using public computers or networks to access sensitive information. • Avoid providing confidential data via email or any other means: Be cautious about sharing personal and financial information with anyone.

Authorities Urge Vigilance and Report Suspicious Activity

The authorities are urging customers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to their banks immediately. The GAP is working closely with local financial institutions to combat these fraudulent activities and protect the integrity of the banking system in Cape Verde.