The Eid al-Fitr homecoming period usually sees an increase in scams. As Eid al-Fitr approaches, people have just received their THR (holiday allowance), which scammers take advantage of to carry out their crimes.
Protect your money by keeping your PIN, OTP, and password confidential. Avoid clicking on suspicious links (phishing) in text messages, use public WiFi with caution, and check your account transactions regularly to avoid unauthorized transactions.
Here is a complete guide to fraud awareness for the Eid holiday season:
Common Types of Fraud During Eid
- Phishing: Chat messages (WhatsApp/SMS) containing fake links (e.g., tax applications, package delivery, digital zakat/waqf, or changes in bank transfer fees).
- Social Engineering: Many scammers target your holiday bonus by posing as your parents, relatives, friends, officials, or clerics you know, especially now with AI technology that can mimic a person's voice and even their face.
- Skimming at ATMs: Installation of illegal devices on ATM machines that are rarely monitored during the Eid al-Fitr holiday, especially in toll road rest areas.
- Eid al-Fitr Promo/Sweepstakes/Gift Scams: Offers of gifts or unreasonable discounts for the holiday that ultimately request personal or banking data.
Transaction Security Tips (Anti-Fraud)
- Keep your PIN, OTP & Password confidential: Never give your OTP code, ATM PIN, or banking application password to anyone, including bank officers.
- Avoid Public WiFi: Do not use public WiFi for mobile banking or online shopping. Use your personal cellular data, which is more secure.
- Beware of fake links: Do not click on links in WhatsApp/SMS messages from unknown numbers. Official banks only contact customers through official channels.
- Check the ATM Before Transacting: Make sure there are no foreign objects in the card slot. Cover your hand when entering your PIN.
- Activate Transaction Notifications: Set up transaction OTP code delivery in myBCA and always activate transaction notifications so that every transaction (incoming/outgoing) is immediately monitored.
- Use Security Features: Take advantage of the card management, card blocking, or transaction limit settings in mobile banking if necessary.
- For Android phone users, make sure your “Google Play Protect” and antivirus features are always active to avoid dangerous links.
If you suspect you have been a victim of fraud, immediately contact Halo BCA via the haloBCA app or call 1500888 to receive assistance from Halo BCA customer service representatives.
Stay calm and vigilant to ensure your Eid al-Fitr homecoming journey remains safe and enjoyable. Happy Eid al-Fitr homecoming!
