Hackers target local corporates for ‘Phishing’
Companies have stepped up their security systems after phishing, an attempt by hackers to steal money or identity by getting owners to reveal personal information to steal user data including login credentials and credit card numbers, is happening in Sri Lanka at a large scale over the past few months.
Some large entities which were subject to phishing attacks in the recent past were Sri Lankan Airlines and Commercial Bank.
The message being circulated on digital media channels, especially WhatsApp, claims to reward a cash price for certain anniversaries of these entities. “We would like to inform the public that this is a scam by a fraudster and kindly request to refrain from clicking on such links and divulging any of your sensitive information,” Commercial Bank said in a statement recently.
A number of financial institutions are scaling up their cyber security. Analysts said that these are the most targeted in the recent past.
Top cyber security officials in certain companies that the Business Times spoke to recently said that it is best not to visit or provide personal data as doing so will enable hacking of these accounts. One such official said that many of these attacks were triggered from outside the borders of the country, and performed not by organised groups, but by individuals with malicious intentions. “We are doing the best we can. It is up to the customers to properly evaluate when requested for information as well,” he said. A Commercial Bank official told the Business Times that what they experienced was a basic hacking attempt, but it was also dangerous, which is why they immediately put out a statement. He said the bank does not carry out any official communication through such authenticated channels or request any confidential information at any time.
The Central Bank (CB) also warned against phishing scams recently. “In recent times, a rapid increase in the number of complaints filed by aggrieved parties has been observed in relation to defrauding money from individuals by giving false information through fraudulent phone calls, text messages, e-mail messages, and social media networks,” the CB in a statement in December.
An international airline’s site was also similarly targeted by attackers recently.
Hitad.lk has you covered with quality used or brand new cars for sale that are budget friendly yet reliable! Now is the time to sell your old ride for something more attractive to today's modern automotive market demands. Browse through our selection of affordable options now on Hitad.lk before deciding on what will work best for you!