FNB is warning consumers of ‘remote access’ scams currently targeting its customers in South Africa, tricking them into compromising the security of their information and financial credentials.
Giuseppe Virgillito, FNB head of digital banking, says, the modus operandi targets unsuspecting users, particularly seniors, by coercing them to automatically download remote software onto their devices under the pretence that it is a ‘security app’ they are installing for their protection.
In some instances, the remote access requests may be obtained via a phone call or SMS that is designed to cause panic by offering you help to stop fraudulent transactions on your bank account.
The success of this fraud requires cooperation from the user to install a remote access app, and sadly, some consumers fall for these tricks and end up compromising credentials, he said.
FNB said that a reputable financial institution will never ask for the following:
- Ask for remote access to your device.
- Ask you to verbally confirm your PIN and passwords for your devices.
- Ask you to share your banking credentials such as Card & CVV number, PINS, OTPS, passwords and usernames
- Move money between accounts for safekeeping.
“Our utmost priority is to protect our customers and empower them to protect themselves. We monitor such scams 24/7 and have made it our responsibility to educate our customers as well as warn the public. The prevention of fraudulent activities such as remote access, phishing,…
