The New Development Bank (NDB) is warning its counterparts and the general public about an e-mail scam in which criminals, posing as bank employees, are trying to defraud the public.
NDB finances infrastructure and sustainable development projects in Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS ) and other emerging economies and developing countries. NDB director general, Africa Regional Centre (ARC) Monale Ratsoma said, “It is not a commercial bank and does not open accounts for individuals, provide them with loans or any form of financing. Nor does it ask for payments or any other favours from potential recipients of funding.
“The New Development Bank does not send unsolicited e-mails or any other communication asking people to open a personal bank account, transfer money, or provide personal information.”
Fraudsters then use this information to open a bank or retail accounts or take out loans for which the victim is accountable. They can even try to impersonate people, and using social engineering, access bank accounts and do transactions.
It is important that you do not respond to these unsolicited messages or pay an administration or an upfront fee in order to qualify for a loan or other financing at low-interest rates. Ratsoma urged the public to report any such communication to their local police station.
If you have had any communication you can report it to the South African Fraud Prevention Services helpline on 011 867 2234 or at www.safps.org.za
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