FNB warns against eWallet scam

First National Bank (FNB) is warning customers again of the eWallet scam, where fraudsters access and manage customers’ eWallet accounts on the FNB App. “We have seen this scam making the rounds again and urge our customers to take note of how it works to protect themselves”, says Elzita Beukes, FNB Communications Manager.

First, the fraudster will a select random cell phone number and attempt to link the eWallet of selected number to their own smartphone, which triggers a notification (with an OTP – one time pin) asking to confirm if customer is indeed the one attempting to link their wallet.

The fraudster then calls the client with a fake excuse to attempt to obtain the OTP.

Unsuspecting clients then give up the OTP which allows the fraudsters access their eWallets for future transfers and withdrawals.

“We would like to tell our customers that the OTP is sufficient control as it seeks authorisation of the account/wallet holder. As with any PIN or password, do not give your OTP to anyone as this step is crucial to protecting your funds. If anyone calls you claiming to be from the bank, and asks you for your OTP or a pin or password of any kind, hang up the phone immediately and report the incident to the bank. We reiterate again that FNB, will never request any security information from you over the phone and you, in turn should never give out any information over the phone. Please remain vigilant and protect your hard-earned cash at all times”, Beukes concluded.