The National Bank of Moldova (NBM) is warning the public about false messages sent in the institution’s name. The warning comes after some media outlets in the Republic of Moldova reported that they had received emails referring to alleged sanctions. The central bank does not send messages of this kind to citizens, businesses or institutions, nor does it request payment of fines via links sent by email, text message or other communication channels.

The NBM reiterates its call to citizens, businesses and institutions to obtain information exclusively from official sources. Links and files attached to fraudulent messages may be used to gain unauthorised access to devices and the data stored on them.

If you receive a suspicious message, the NBM recommends the following precautions.

• Do not click on any links in the message.
• Do not open any attached files.
• Do not forward the message.
• Do not proceed with any requests or invitations contained in the message.

If you have any questions regarding the authenticity of a message, please address them directly to the organisation named in the correspondence, via its official channels. If you have clicked on a link or opened a suspicious file on a work device, please inform the person responsible for IT security immediately.

To protect your accounts, keep your passwords, PIN, card security code and confirmation codes received via text message or in the banking app confidential, even if the request appears to be from a bank or a public authority. If you receive a request regarding your account or card, check it directly with your bank using its official channels.

Banks manage their customers’ accounts using their own systems. To protect their IT systems and customers’ data, banks and payment service providers are required to comply with the requirements set by the NBM regarding information security, IT risk management and business continuity.

Through specific measures and regulations, the National Bank of Moldova is continuing its efforts to protect the public against attempts at fraud. Everyone’s vigilance complements these fraud prevention measures.