The Czech National Bank (CNB) has warned about an increase in cybercriminals targeting the bank accounts of Czech citizens, with new tactics to access them. The CNB has noticed a rise in payment frauds, with hundreds of people reporting attempts to lure them into giving away their money over the past six months. The most common scams involve tricking victims into authorizing payment on their mobile banking app or stealing their login details so that fraudsters can access their accounts. Cybercriminals are also becoming more sophisticated and professional, posing as members of bank boards and targeting not only individual customers but also businesses, non-profit organizations, and local governments.

To help people protect themselves from scams, the CNB has launched a new educational website called “Peníze na útěku” (Money on the run). The website provides guidance on how to recognize and avoid fraudulent schemes, as well as practical advice on securing online banking and payment systems. The CNB has also called on the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to their bank or the police immediately.

This warning from the CNB comes amid a growing trend of cybercrime worldwide, as criminals seek to take advantage of the increasing reliance on digital technologies and remote working due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, the use of mobile banking apps has soared during the pandemic, as people look for ways to manage their finances from the safety of their homes. However, this has also created new opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities in mobile banking apps and steal sensitive information from users.

The CNB’s warning serves as a reminder that everyone needs to take steps to protect themselves from online fraud, including keeping their passwords secure, avoiding suspicious links and emails, and being careful about what personal information they share online. It is also important to stay up-to-date with the latest security measures and to report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities. With the rise of digital technologies and remote working, cybercrime is likely to remain a persistent threat, and it is essential that people take proactive steps to protect themselves from this growing menace.

Article by Prague Forum