1. Don’t fall victim to a scam. If you get an unexpected request to make a transfer, DON’T. Criminals pretend to be people you trust, like your utility company, your bank or even the police. Send them your money and you may not get it back.
2. Remember: we’ll never ask you to move money to a safe account, share security codes, or ask for help with investigating internal fraud.

If you suspect that there has been any unauthorized breach of your card(s), bank account details, or personal information or that a transaction has taken place that you did not initiate, you should notify NBB immediately by contacting our call centre.

The below are some pointers to keep in mind to protect yourself and your funds from fraudulent activities:

1. Protect Your Personal Information

Never share sensitive personal information like your bank account number, passwords, or PIN with anyone, even if they claim to be from the bank. Legitimate bank employees will never ask for such details over the phone, email, or text message. Always verify the identity of the person contacting you by calling the bank’s official customer service number. Avoid storing your financial details in unsecured or shared locations, like email drafts or unprotected files. Be cautious of unsolicited calls or messages asking for information; always confirm directly with the bank.

2. Be Wary of Phishing Attempts

Phishing scams often come in the form of emails or texts pretending to be from your bank, urging immediate action. Do not click on any links or download attachments in such messages, as they may contain malware. Verify the email sender’s address carefully; fraudulent addresses often have minor spelling errors or strange domains. Report suspicious messages to your bank immediately for verification and investigation. Use the bank’s official mobile app or website to check any alerts or communications instead of relying on emailed links.

3. Use Strong Passwords

Create strong, unique passwords for your online banking accounts, combining uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays, names, or phone numbers in your passwords. Change your passwords regularly, especially if you suspect they might have been compromised. Use two-factor authentication (2FA) where available, adding an extra layer of security to your accounts. Avoid reusing passwords across different websites and services, as this increases the risk of breach.

4. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Review your bank statements and transaction history frequently to detect any unauthorized activities. Set up alerts for transactions so you’re immediately notified of any activity on your account. If you spot suspicious activity, contact your bank immediately to investigate and secure your account. Keep records of your transactions and compare them with your bank statements for accuracy. Using mobile banking apps can make monitoring your accounts more convenient and real-time.

5. Beware of Scams Involving Urgency or Fear

Fraudsters often use scare tactics, claiming your account is at risk or that you owe money. Take your time to evaluate such claims and do not act out of fear or urgency. Call your bank directly to confirm any alarming messages or threats. Remember, legitimate organizations will not pressure you into immediate decisions. Be skeptical of requests for immediate payments through unusual methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency.

6. Secure Your Devices

Keep your phone, computer, and other devices updated with the latest security patches and antivirus software. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for online banking; instead, use a secure and private network. Install trusted banking apps only from official app stores like Google Play or the Apple App Store. Enable biometric authentication (fingerprint or face recognition) for an added layer of security on your devices. Always log out of your accounts after finishing your transactions, especially on shared devices.

7. Verify Payment Requests

Be cautious when transferring money, especially to new recipients or large amounts. Double-check the details of the recipient before completing any payment or transfer. Contact the recipient directly using a verified number to confirm their payment request. Avoid rushing through payments, especially if pressured to act quickly by the other party. Remember that recovering funds sent to scammers can be difficult or impossible.

8. Recognize Investment Fraud

Be skeptical of investment offers promising high returns with little or no risk. Research any investment company or broker before sharing your money or details. Avoid sharing your banking information with individuals or companies you haven’t verified. Do not let anyone pressure you into making investments without giving you time to think it over. Consult with a trusted financial advisor before engaging in significant investments.

9. Use Multi-Layered Security Features

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your online banking accounts for enhanced security. Use secure passwords for your phone and other devices to prevent unauthorized access. Regularly update your contact information with the bank to ensure you receive important security alerts. Consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to add an extra layer of security when accessing your accounts online. Regularly review your security settings and update them to match current best practices.

10. Educate Yourself About Fraud Trends

Stay informed about common scams and fraudulent activities through trusted sources. Read updates from your bank about new security measures and fraud warnings. Share what you’ve learned about fraud prevention with your friends and family to protect them as well. Take advantage of resources like fraud prevention workshops or online tutorials offered by the bank. Being proactive and informed can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to fraud.