Hyperlinks in bank messages are scams: DAP

KUCHING: People have been urged to remain vigilant and avoid clicking on hyperlinks in messages claiming to be from their banks, as scammers are increasingly exploiting this method to steal money.

Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman and Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen said Bank Negara Malaysia has prohibited banks from including hyperlinks in any messages sent to customers.

“This policy, whether for confirmation, inquiries, or promotions, is intended to curb scams.

“Last month, we had a meeting with Bank Negara officers and we were informed that all banks are prohibited from sending messages containing hyperlinks to their customers.

“If you receive a message supposedly from your bank that contains a hyperlink, it is 100 per cent a scam,” he said in a press conference on Sunday (Aug 11).

Chong stressed that clicking on such links can lead to immediate financial loss, as scammers use them to access victims’ bank accounts.

Therefore, he advised the public to report any suspicious messages containing hyperlinks to Bank Negara Malaysia.

In case of unauthorised transactions, he urged cardholders to call the number printed on the back of their bank cards, instead of clicking on links or calling the number provided in suspicious messages.

“Please be extra cautious when browsing the internet. If you receive any suspicious messages, do not click on any links,” he said.