The Bank of Maldives (BML) has advised customers to be vigilant against scammers.
BML has reported a rise in fraudulent extortion cases. Scammers are utilizing Facebook to contact BML customers, claiming funds are required for medical reasons or to cover customs clearance fees after sending a gift. Additionally, the scammers are employing counterfeit transaction receipts from other banks, including Islamic Bank, to extract money from individuals.
BML said that scammers are using Viber and WhatsApp to send extortion messages. Additionally, they are engaging in deceitful online trading to extort money from individuals.
Earlier this year, BML implemented several security measures in response to fraudulent withdrawals from its accounts. These measures included introducing a "kill switch" feature to enhance the security of its internet banking and cards, implementing two-factor authentication for BML application, and requiring One Time Passwords (OTP) for QR payments and discontinued the use of email as a channel for OTPs required for internet banking and mobile banking services.