MFSA and Central Bank warn of loan and email scams

The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) and the Central Bank of Malta have both issued fresh warnings to the public about rising financial scams, urging greater vigilance in light of recent activity targeting individuals online and via email.

In a notice published on Monday, the MFSA cautioned about the use of fraudulent Facebook profiles that falsely claim to offer loan services. These profiles are reportedly imitating legitimate financial institutions or presenting themselves as licensed providers, despite having no authorisation from the MFSA to operate in Malta.

The MFSA urged the public to remain vigilant, particularly when approached with financial offers through unconventional channels like phone calls or social media. It also reminded consumers to verify that any individual or entity offering financial services is authorised by the MFSA or another reputable regulator.

The authority reminded the public that it can check whether operators are legitimate by referring to the register of licensed entities.

It also urged people to read its scam awareness guide and to report suspicious activity immediately.

Central Bank’s email fraud

Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Malta has alerted the public to fraudulent emails being sent from an account impersonating the Bank. These emails may claim to represent the institution and attempt to deceive recipients by using the Bank’s name and branding, specifically originating from info@malta-centralbank.org.

The bank clarified that it is not involved in any private financial transactions, particularly those requesting personal or financial information. It also urged the public not to open suspicious attachments or click on links in unsolicited emails.

Both institutions stressed the importance of reporting suspicious activity to the relevant authorities and not sharing sensitive personal data with unknown or unverified sources.