Posts on social media have gone viral saying that some people have received messages, purportedly from Bank Negara, informing them that arrest warrants have been issued against them.
The messages also ask the receiver to download an APK file (mobile phone app installer), which carries the Bank Negara logo and name.
Are scammers misusing Bank Negara's name to dupe victims into downloading apps that can then be used to fleece them?
VERDICT:
TRUE
In a Facebook post, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) said it was aware of the matter and urged the public not to trust anyone claiming via WhatsApp to be officers of any organisation.
"Do not trust anyone impersonating officials, including BNM staff, through Whatsapp. When in doubt, contact BNMLINK," it said in its Facebook post.
In a series of graphics, the central bank also warned of the dangers of installing unknown apps via APK files.
"The app is a hazard as it can control SMS, email and WhatsApp messages, as well as stealing sensitive information such as personal data, passwords, and even OTP (one-time passwords)," Bank Negara said.
The perpetrator could also track the victim's location, Bank Negara said.
"When in doubt, contact BNMLINK," it added.
