ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – The Office of National Drug and Money Laundering Control Policy (ONDCP) is “strongly” advising the public to immediately heighten vigilance in response to increased reports of fraudulent activities targeting bank accounts.
Criminals are actively accessing individuals’ accounts through online banking platforms after they are tricked into disclosing personal and financial information via text messages, emails, and phone calls.
“Consequently, account balances are drained by several transfers and top-up transactions (top-up scam) to unknown individuals without their knowledge,” the ONDCP said that the common tactics identified include smishing attacks, where fake text messages claiming that a person’s account has been suspended, placed on hold, or is under review and urging the person to click a link to “restore access.”
The authorities say phishing attacks involve emails or phone calls from individuals impersonating representatives of a bank or telecommunications provider, requesting passwords, one-time passcodes, or security question answers.
“The public must protect themselves from these schemes,” the ONDCP said, urging members of the public to follow safety tips, including if messaged, do not click any link in texts or emails; delete it.
“Always use your bank’s official app or website to access your accounts,” the ONDCP said, adding that “if someone calls asking for personal info, hang up immediately (and) contact your bank or telecommunications provider yourself to verify the call and issue.
“Never give out one-time codes, passwords, or security answers even if they claim to be from your bank or telecommunications provider, and if you’ve clicked a link or shared any information, report it to your bank immediately.
“You should be honest in this regard because it will help the banks understand how the fraud has occurred, take quick action to protect your account, and stop the fraud. Secure your devices and ensure that they are password protected,” the ONDCP added.
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