GCB Bank warns customers against scams, urges the public to verify before clicking links

GCB Bank PLC has urged the public to be vigilant against financial scams, warning customers not to share their passwords, personal identification numbers (PINs), and card details with people claiming to represent banks and other trusted institutions. The bank also advised customers to verify suspicious calls, text messages and online offers through official channels before taking action, as fraudsters increasingly exploit people’s fear, trust and desire for quick financial gains to steal money and personal information. The GCB Bank’s Chief Information Security Officer, Illiaso Zango, said this during a fraud awareness discussion held on Thursday, October 22, under the theme ‘ Inside the Scammers’ Playbook ‘.

The event, which forms part of the bank’s customer service month, brought together stakeholders from the financial and security sectors to discuss how fraudsters operate and the steps individuals can take to protect themselves. Speaking at the event, Mr Zango said safeguarding customers’ money and personal information was central to maintaining the trust they placed in the bank. “This topic is very important and dear to my heart. The reason is that we are in business because you entrust us with your money, your personal data,” he said. He explained that criminals were constantly looking for ways to undermine that trust and take advantage of weaknesses in people’s judgement. “The foundation of the trust that you’ve reposed in us is security, because you think we are secure. And indeed, we are secure,” he said. Mr Zango said GCB Bank had protected customers’ money and personal information for more than 70 years, adding that continued public education was necessary to maintain that confidence. Mr Zango urged customers to think carefully before responding to messages…