Reserve Bank warns public over fake banking calls on social media apps

The Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) has issued a public warning following reports of fraudulent phone calls made through social media apps by scammers posing as bank officials.

In a public notice, the RBF said callers were impersonating local bank staff and using the RBF logo to appear legitimate.

The scammers allegedly claim customers’ accounts require urgent action, including card replacement, and ask for personal information such as photo identification.

The central bank warned that the information could be used for malicious purposes.

“RBF will not be requesting personal information via social media apps,” the notice stated.

The bank is urging members of the public not to provide account details, card information or identification documents to unknown callers.

“Be vigilant and do not provide personal information including account details, card information, or identification documents to illegitimate persons.”

The RBF also advised people who receive suspicious calls or messages to ignore them, block the number and report the matter to authorities.

The notice said the warning was issued to raise awareness and protect the community from scams.

“The RBF will not accept responsibility for unauthorised use of its logo and any transactions or decisions made based on any illegitimate calls and/or messages.”

The Reserve Bank has encouraged members of the public with concerns or questions to contact the institution directly through its official channels.