Cyber Fraud: A Growing Concern for Brunei Darussalam’s Financial Institutions
The Brunei Darussalam Central Bank has issued a warning about the increasing threat of cyber fraud targeting financial institutions and individuals in the country. Scammers are using sophisticated tactics to manipulate unsuspecting victims, including retirees and those desperate for quick cash.
Rise of Online Shopping Scams
According to Cyber Security Brunei (CSB), online shopping scams are rampant on social media platforms, particularly through “Sponsored” sections of various apps. The CSB warns that the term “Sponsored” does not guarantee legitimacy, as anyone can use the paid feature for marketing purposes.
Tips to Avoid Sharing Personal Information
The CSB cautions against sharing personal information, such as birth dates and IC numbers, which scammers often use to defraud victims. To stay safe:
- Verify the authenticity of any text message or caller claiming to be from a financial institution or government agency before providing sensitive information.
- Be cautious when dealing with online offers that seem too good to be true.
Additional Tips for Staying Safe
The CSB also recommends:
- Filtering friends and followers on social media platforms
- Setting profiles to private
- Avoiding clicking suspicious links or entering personal information on dubious websites
Phishing Attempts: A Growing Concern
The CSB warns against responding to unexpected emails or ads claiming that an individual has won a prize or promotion. These messages often serve as phishing attempts designed to trick victims into revealing sensitive information.
Stay Safe from Cyber Fraud
To stay safe, follow these tips:
- Never give out personal information to anyone, including bank login details, credit/debit card numbers, or one-time passwords.
- Always verify the authenticity of any text message or caller claiming to be from a financial institution or government agency.
- Don’t click on suspicious links, enter personal or credit card information on dubious websites, reply to unexpected links, or respond to emails or ads claiming an individual has won something.
Collaboration to Combat Cyber Fraud
The Brunei Darussalam Central Bank and Cyber Security Brunei are working together to combat cyber fraud and protect the country’s financial institutions and citizens from these threats. The public is urged to remain vigilant and take steps to safeguard their personal information online.