Financial Crime World

Bank Customers Warned: Be Cautious with One-Time Passwords

In an effort to protect customers from financial fraud, the Financial Consumer Protection Department (FCP Dep.) and Jo-FinCERT Response Team have issued guidelines on how to stay safe while conducting online transactions.

OTP Scams: A Common Threat

According to the department, one-time passwords (OTPs) sent to phone numbers registered with banks or e-wallet providers are a common way for criminals to gain access to customers’ accounts. To avoid falling prey to these scams, customers are advised not to answer incoming calls from international sources, as fraudsters often use this tactic.

Additional Safety Measures

The department warns against sharing personal photos or identity proof documents with anyone and advises customers to:

  • Install automatic lock mechanisms on phones and devices
  • Avoid unknown applications and programs
  • Keep important data backed up on external hard drives or cloud storage services
  • Log out of online banking services after use
  • Update passwords periodically

Signs of Phone Spying

The department also highlights factors that may indicate a phone is being spied on, including:

• Unusual battery drainage • Overheating • Increased data consumption • Interference with device shutdown processes

What to Do in Case of Fraud Exposure

In the event of fraud exposure, customers are advised to:

  • Block their payment cards and freeze account balances by visiting their bank branch or contacting customer service
  • File a complaint with the Central Bank of Jordan
  • Report the incident to the Anti-Cybercrimes Unit

Preventing Card Fraud

To prevent card fraud, customers are warned against:

• Deactivating card features online • Keeping track of their card’s contactless feature • Carefully checking transaction amounts before entering PINs at point-of-sale sites or ATMs

Stay Safe Online

By following these guidelines, bank customers can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to financial fraud and ensure a safe and secure online banking experience.