The Bank of Greece has launched an awareness campaign against internet fraud with the slogan “If you click on it…you will be caught”. This initiative coincides with this October’s European Cybersecurity Month and the bank’s debut of its new YouTube account.

The campaign by the Bank of Greece started last March in an effort to inform citizens about safe payments and protection from cyber fraud, urging citizens to take the following steps in order to keep safe online:

• Keep updated on new risks and emerging types of fraud.

• Be alert regarding unusual behavior or situations (e.g., “too-good-to-be-true” offers, urgent requests for money, suspicious activity on your bank account or card).

• Ensure your computer’s operating system is up-to-date and protected with antivirus software. Regularly update your browser and only install software from trusted sources.

• Do not reply to suspicious emails, texts, or calls, and avoid clicking on links, QR codes, or opening attachments.

• Never share bank account information, card details, one-time passwords, or sensitive personal information.

• Always type your bank’s website address yourself and avoid following sponsored links from search engines.

• Choose trusted platforms and stores, and check reviews.

• Check notifications from your bank, including OTPs, new device logins, digital wallets, or payment services and regularly review your account transactions.

• Confirm that messages are truly from the stated sender.

• Before responding to a job ad, verify the company details.

• Remember that your bank will never ask for your card PIN or e-banking password.

• Refrain from connecting to public and unsecured Wi-Fi networks.

• Avoid storing passwords on your devices and change them at least every six months. Steer clear of simple or predictable passwords.

• Do not respond to unexpected calls from purported service providers without a prior request from you.

• If you suspect fraud, contact your bank immediately.