Scam Alert: BOV warns against fraudulent SMS messages & fake website

Bank of Valletta (BOV) has issued an urgent warning to customers regarding fraudulent SMS messages claiming to be from the bank, asking customers to confirm their mobile phone numbers via a fraudulent website.

The messages received by customers, the bank explains, claim that BOV is changing the way that transactions are verified. “This is a scam”, it informs.

https://www.facebook.com/Bovofficial/posts/5376583492416942

Customers receiving these messages are advised:

The message is not from BOV
The website link is fake
Do not click on the link
Do not send your details
Delete the SMS

Additionally, customers are reminded that BOV never asks for personal or financial information via SMS, email or social media.

This is only the latest in a rash of phishing attacks to be reported in Malta this year.

Aside from BOV, similar schemes have been cautioned against by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), HSBC Malta, Malta Central Bank, and Malta Gaming Authority.

For more information on scams, and how to avoid them, readers are encouraged to refer to the MFSA's Scam Detection Guidelines.

Written by

Solomon Cefai

Solomon has an interest in financial markets and innovative business practices. He also loves literature and music. As such, you might find him on the seafront with a cold Kinnie, his trusty headphones, and a good book.

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