Cybercrime

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Cybercrime refers to a harmful activity executed by an individual or a group of individuals using modern telecommunication networks such as the internet and mobile phones to conduct fraudulent transactions. Perhaps the most prominent form of cybercrime is identity theft, in which criminals use the internet to steal personal information from other users.

One of the best ways to fight fraud and identity theft is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Hence, in addition to our bank’s protected systems which are regularly checked and updated and in compliance with BDL Basic Circular 144, below are few simple precautions that can better help you protect yourself against cybercrimes especially in relation to wire transfers:

  • Install the necessary anti-virus software on all your computers, phones and tablets and ensure they are kept up to date.
  • Do not use public Wi-Fi either to send or receive emails or to enter your bank account details online and secure your private Wi-Fi network with a strong password.
  • Create strong and complex passwords, do not share them and change them frequently.
  • Do not open suspicious or unknown emails and websites.
  • Pay attention to changes in counterparty details (such as name, account number, email…) and confirm any modifications with the counterparty directly through a phone call.
  • Make sure the insurance policies cover the risks associated with financial and banking transactions via e-mail.
  • Check all SMS notifications you receive and review your bank statements regularly. Notify the bank immediately in case of unauthorized activity.
  • Do not allow anyone to get access to your computer and repair your computer at trusted and certified shops with good standards.

 

For further details about cybercrime prevention, kindly check the related part of the cybercrime prevention guide issued by the Internal Security Forces (ISF) in collaboration with Banque Du Liban (BDL), Special Investigation Commission (SIC) and the Association of Banks in Lebanon (ABL). It is directed towards persons and other institutions and includes indicators for cybercrimes, policies and procedures to prevent cybercrimes and the necessary corrective measures. Once a cybercrime is detected or takes place, you should immediately submit a notification or complaint to the competent judicial authorities and notify the bank.

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