Current Security Alerts
 

At AIB we take security seriously. We aim to protect you against the threats associated with internet fraud. Here, you will find details of specific current security threats to our online banking customers and alerts that you should be aware of.

Malware Threat Update

You may have seen reports in the press recently regarding current threats from sophisticated malware.   Although these threats are serious, you can do simple things to protect yourself.  Be suspicious about any emails you are not expecting, even from trusted sources.  Do not click on links contained in emails.  Make sure that you set your PC to update the Operating System and your Malware protection automatically.

For more information on staying safe online go to: https://www.getsafeonline.org/nca/

Advanced Fee (419) Fraud

Advance fee fraud or ’The 419 (four-one-nine) fraud’ as it's also known, is a method by which a fraudster attempts to trick you into supplying 'up-front' money to secure your involvement in their specified transaction. There are many variations of this type of fraud.

How does Advanced-Fee (419) Fraud work?

• You would first receive an unsolicited communication (e.g. fax, email, letter or website) concerning an individual, business or government entity wanting to get money out of the country
  
• These communications (e.g. websites, letters, emails or faxes) often look very similar to those of a reputable institution
  
• The fraudster then contacts you directly offering to transfer money into your bank account in exchange for a small fee
  
• If you respond to the initial offer, you may receive ’official looking’ documents to complete. Typically, you are then asked to provide a blank letterhead and your bank account details, in addition to money to cover the transaction, transfer costs and attorney's fees
• The fraudster will then quickly move your money to an offshore account and then move on to their next victim.

How to recognise Advanced-Fee (419) Fraud letters

• They generally include requests for ‘up-front’ money to secure your involvement in their transaction. Hence the name: ’advanced fee fraud’
  
• They are generally marked ’urgent’ or ’confidential’
  
• Often they promise millions of dollars for your help, once the transaction is completed
  
• They always have a scheme or reason for contacting you, examples include:
  

         - An inheritance that is tied-up
         - Diamonds in boxes that they need to get out of the country
         - Millions of dollars in boxes that they need to get out of the country
         - Money ’frozen’ by government
         - Excess oil or other merchandise

• Most 419-fraudsters present themselves as individuals such as doctors, lawyers, sons of ex-generals and other important persons, to trick you into thinking they are respectable and trustworthy individuals
  
• They are always seeking a foreign ’partner’ to help them
  
• They will ask for personal information about you, such as:
  

          - personal or business letterhead
          - banking information
          - personal telephone number.

What should you do if you suspect a 419 scam?

Delete the email. The email, although it may look like it is addressed specifically to you, will have been sent to many people.