PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk, or BNI, once again urges all customers to increase their vigilance against various digital fraud schemes, including the spread of fake Christmas greetings that often surge leading up to Christmas celebrations.
BNI Corporate Secretary Okki Rushartomo stated that during the end-of-year period, cybercriminals typically exploit the momentum of religious holidays to launch their attacks, targeting customers through text messages, social media, and messaging applications.
"As Christmas approaches, we remind customers to be more vigilant against fraud schemes that use Christmas greetings as a pretext, especially those accompanied by suspicious links or files," said Okki in an official statement.
According to Okki, one of the common methods used is sending Christmas greeting messages accompanied by files or links containing fake gift applications (APPs). These applications contain malware that can record customers' personal data, including banking information, if downloaded and used.
"If customers download the application or fill in their personal data in it, the perpetrators can use that information to access accounts and steal customers' balances," he explained.
BNI advises customers not to click links or download files from unknown sources carelessly, and to verify the authenticity of received messages at all times. Additionally, customers are advised never to share confidential banking data, such as card numbers, CVV/CVC, PINs, or One Time Passwords (OTPs), with anyone.
"Make sure your device is equipped with antivirus, the system is always updated, and only use official applications downloaded via trusted platforms," added Okki.
Okki also invited all customers to remain smart and vigilant when making digital transactions. "Don't just click. Let's work together to protect the security of our banking data and transactions. "Happy Christmas to those who celebrate," Okki concluded.
By increasing collective vigilance, BNI hopes that all customers can avoid the risk of cybercrime and continue to transact safely, comfortably, and responsibly amidst increased digital activity as the year draws to a close.