The National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) has urged financial service users to tighten their security and remain vigilant against cybercriminals who may fraudulently access funds from their accounts.
BNR cautioned that some individuals impersonate financial institutions, contacting customers via phone calls, SMS, or emails to request sensitive information such as PINs, one-time passwords (OTPs), or other account details.
The central bank emphasized that no legitimate financial institution is authorized to request such confidential information through phone calls, messages, or email.
The warning follows a recent notice issued by Bank of Kigali, which revealed attempted cyber theft targeting its customers. Fraudsters reportedly sent malicious links designed to trick users into disclosing personal information.
As a precaution, some services were temporarily suspended to safeguard customer assets.
Reports from various sources indicate that a significant number of customers may have encountered these fraudulent links, although the exact number of those who lost money remains unclear.
Bank of Kigali has since advised its customers to avoid clicking on untrusted links and to use only its official platforms.
This development comes shortly after a similar incident in early March involving Equity Bank, where fraudulent activities within its system led to unusual fund transfers.
At the time, the bank swiftly implemented corrective measures, launched investigations, recovered the funds, and facilitated the arrest of those involved.
The Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda noted that while digital financial services enhance efficiency, they also increase exposure to cybercrime risks.
He reassured the public that robust measures have been put in place to protect customers, and efforts to prevent, investigate, and prosecute cyber-related financial crimes are being intensified to safeguard and recover customers’ assets whenever incidents occur.
