THE Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) warned the public against suspicious emails asking clients to click on links to prevent account deactivation due to coronavirus disease (Covid-19).
BAP, in an advisory, said the public should not click on the links since it will compromise their account's security.
"These emails are forms of Phishing wherein personal and sensitive information will be asked in order to gain control of your accounts. Banks will never request for your sensitive information," the advisory read.
The banks are currently investigating the matter to ensure that fraudsters are apprehended and penalized.
To protect clients from similar cybersecurity threats, BAP advised the banking public to ignore any suspicious emails, calls or text messages, and report it to their respective banks immediately.
This also includes not opening nor clicking any links.
If one is concerned about the authenticity of the email / call / text message, they can contact their bank immediately and provide all necessary details about the email, call, or text message, BAP said.
BAP also urged the banking public to use only the official apps of their respective banks. "Check your bank’s official pages and websites to learn more," it said.
BAP said banks will never request for any personal information, account number or any one time passwords (OTPs).
It said one should also protect their passwords either by changing it regularly, or to create strong passwords to deter potential hackers.
The public should also avoid using a shared network or a shared computer since these may be traced back or attract nearby hackers, it added.
As a layer of protection, BAP said banks have incorporated two-factor authentication among other safety measures on all bank account-related transactions online.
For more cybersecurity tips, visit BAP's website at https://bap.org.ph/cybersecurity/cybersafe/ (JOB)