Financial Crime World

Iceland’s Steps in Combating bank Fraud: A Warning to Individuals and Businesses

In a continued effort to safeguard customers from financial fraud, Iceland’s leading banking institution issues a stern warning against various types of scams targeting both individuals and businesses in the digital realm.Here are some common types of fraud to be aware of:

Social Media Fraud

  • Cybercriminals pretending to be friends or trusted entities on social media to solicit sensitive information
  • Phishing sites disguised as popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Telegram Money pages
  • Be cautious, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is

Smishing (SMS Phishing)

  • Exploit method where cybercriminals pose as reputable organizations like DHL or UPS
  • Obtain card information and create fake wallets
  • Access online banking accounts and carry out transactions

Vishing (Voice Phishing)

  • Fraudsters posing as brokers, offering large sums of money
  • Attempting to gain access to bank accounts
  • Using numbers like 539-5244, 539-5263, and 539-5264 to target unsuspecting Icelanders

Phishing Emails

  • Claiming to be from delivery companies, requesting you to click a link to update information
  • Containing malicious links or payment requests
  • Should not be trusted without verifying authenticity

Investment Fraud

  • Offers of high returns for little to no investment
  • Unsolicited contact from strangers promising quick profits
  • Research companies and schemes thoroughly before investing

Steps to Take If You Fall Victim to Cyber Fraud

  1. Contact your commercial bank and the police immediately
  2. For Icelandic residents, contact abendingar@lrh.is
  3. Act swiftly to minimize potential damage

Best Practices for Protecting Your Online Security

  1. Monitor your online accounts for suspicious activity
  2. Report any suspicious activity to your bank and take screenshots of interactions
  3. Be proactive in protecting your online security

Stay informed and be vigilant to protect your financial well-being against the most common types of fraud: smishing, vishing, phishing, and investment fraud.