Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) says it is deeply concerned about recent reports of scammers using their reputable brand to deceive and defraud unsuspecting individuals.
These unscrupulous persons, the bank says, are targeting customers to hoodwink their hard-earned money.
“We take this matter very seriously and wish to caution our valued customers and the general public about the ongoing scams,” the bank press statement reads in part.
In recent times, SLCB said, there had been a rise in fraudulent activities by scammers who ‘impersonate’ or posed themselves as SLCB representatives through making phone calls, sending emails, text messages, and through social media platforms.
These persons are being referred to by the bank’s management as criminals who are adept at creating convincing and deceptive communications, often promising financial opportunities to creditors, loan approvals, or prizes in exchange for personal or financial information.
Sierra Leone Commercial Bank said it would like to emphasize the following key points to help customers and the public to protect themselves from falling prey to these scammers.
They advised that customers must be Skeptical; should always be cautious when receiving unsolicited communication claiming to be coming from SLCB.
If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is, the bank warns.
It asked customers to verify a source that is “if you receive a call, email, or message from someone claiming to represent SLCB, independently verify their identity by contacting the bank directly through official channels, it said.
“Do not use the contact information provided by the potential scammer.
Protect Your Information: Never share sensitive personal or financial information, such as your account number, pin, or with anyone over the phone or online, unless you are certain of the recipient’s authenticity.”
“Report suspicious activity: If you encounter any suspicious activity or believe you have been targeted by a scammer using SLCB’s name, please report it to your local law enforcement authorities and notify the bank immediately.”
Your prompt reporting can help us take appropriate action against these fraudsters, it added.
Sierra Leone Commercial Bank says it remains committed to ensure the safety and security of their customers and the general public.
“We are actively working with law enforcement agencies to investigate and combat these fraudulent activities.”
“SLCB will never engage in unsolicited communications asking for personal or financial information, and we do not endorse or participate in any fraudulent schemes or deals.”
SLCB urges all customers and the public to stay vigilant and follow the precautions outlined above.
By working together, the bank said, people would be able to protect their community from falling victim to scam activities. The staff said they still maintain the integrity of Sierra Leone Commercial Bank in the public eye.
For more information or to report a suspected scam, please contact our Customer Service Department at +232-79-211-121/+232- 88-225-225 or Corporate Secretariat at +232-78-645774/+232-79-950-182
Sierra Leone Commercial Bank remains your trusted financial partner, and we appreciate your continued trust and cooperation in keeping our community safe from scammers.