Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) representatives highlighted real-world examples of scams, sourced from customer complaints and viral social media posts, during the ‘Digital Warga Emas’ initiative, an ongoing programme by the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI).
As part of the initiative, BIBD conducted an informative session on recognising scams, emphasising the bank’s commitment to protecting customers from financial fraud.
The bank underscored the importance of empowering the community, particularly the elderly, with the necessary tools and awareness to identify and avoid scams. This aligns with BIBD’s efforts to educate the public on scam prevention and empower customers to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
Many of the highlighted cases involved customers misusing their own accounts by renting them out to third parties. Such actions not only put the customers at risk of financial loss but also compromise the security of the broader financial ecosystem.
Additionally, BIBD addressed the growing trend of individuals getting entangled in ‘get rich quick’ schemes or pyramid schemes. The bank observed that some customers, seeking fast gains, end up compromising their own financial integrity by participating in such fraudulent activities. This not only exposes them to significant personal risk but also contributes to a concerning rise in scam-related complaints.
BIBD works closely with the authorities to investigate such complaints, ensuring that each case is handled with the seriousness it deserves.
The bank encourages customers to liaise directly with the bank to resolve any issues.
It also urges customers to avoid spreading unsubstantiated claims on social media that may cause public alarm.
BIBD reminded the public that it reserves the right to take legal action under the Public Order Act against those found knowingly spreading false or unverified claims. As mentioned by Minister of Home Affairs and BIBD Chairman Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, during the recent annual general meeting, the bank will not hesitate to take legal action under the Public Order Act against any individuals found spreading false information, as part of its commitment to fostering trust and transparency.
Through its participation in initiatives like Digital Warga Emas, BIBD remains focused on promoting greater digital literacy and responsible online behaviour, especially among vulnerable segments of the society.
BIBD urges its customers to remain vigilant, avoid sharing personal banking details, and consult with bank representatives if in doubt about the legitimacy of any financial offer or request. – Lyna Mohamad
