Security Information

Malware (Malicious Software)

<p>As technology advances, mobile phones become a target for malware. Mobile phones are vulnerable to hacking by ill-intentioned persons, regardless of their operating system.</p> <ul> <li>Most malicious applications on your devices&rsquo; default mobile application stores (Google Play, App Store, Microsoft Store, and so on) will direct you to another application where you will download the actual malware.</li> <li>The malware found on mobile app stores is often presented in the Turkish language and commonly imitates the names or branding of financial or religious applications, such as Number Inquiry, Foreign Currency Buy-Sell and Conversion, the Turkish Revenue Administration, Title Deed Inquiry, Vehicle Buy-Sell, Personal Finance, Virtual Wallet, OGS (Auto-Pass System) or HGS (Fast Pass System) balance check and payment and Akbil (electronic transit pass used in Istanbul).</li> <li>Malicious software can spread through malicious text messages and emails.</li> </ul>

<ul> <li>Typically, alternative app stores and unknown sources do not have adequate security systems or controls in place. Always use the official app stores to download mobile apps. Never download apps on alternative platforms.</li> <li>Do not click on links in text messages, WhatsApp messages or emails under suspicious titles from unknown sources or even from acquaintances.</li> <li>Ensure you have anti-virus software installed and updated to the latest version on the personal or work mobile device, tablet, laptop or desktop computer you use to carry out your banking transactions.</li> </ul>

<p>Disregard any and all scam advertisement on social media and other platforms using our Bank’s title and logo. Do not click on ads and do not share any information through such links. Malicious persons will attempt all sorts of forgery and fraud to obtain private information such as your credit card information, credentials, internet/mobile banking username and password, and SMS OTP (one-time password) for transaction approval. We shall not, under any circumstances, request either verbally or in writing such information from our clients.</p>

<p>Scammers may introduce themselves as lawyers, police officers, prosecutors or bankers, or may pretend to be your friend or the company you are trading with (malicious persons impersonate your friend or colleagues by hacking their accounts) on social media or through emails. The aim of such persons is to defraud you by obtaining your electronic banking passwords, credentials or access information.</p> <p>For password and information safety, we strongly recommend not responding to anyone who asks for such information.</p>

<p>Please notify our Bank as soon as possible if your mobile device or SIM card is stolen or lost. Please ensure to erase your banking applications and to remove your electronic banking login information before handing over your device to someone else. Please remember to update your registered phone number on the electronic banking system should you change your phone number.</p>