CEO’S FESTIVE SEASON MESSAGE ON CYBER RISK

Dear Valued Customers and Clients,

As the festival season approaches, we want to ensure that your online banking experience remains safe and secure. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are active during this time – preying on unsuspecting users eager to catch shopping deals and spread holiday cheer. Here are some essential tips to help you stay protected:

  1. Shop from Trusted Sources Only: Stick to well-known retailers or verified websites. If you come across an offer from an unfamiliar site, double-check its legitimacy. Look for “https://” in the URL and read online reviews before making a purchase.
  2. Be Wary of Deals Too Good to Be True: If an offer looks too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often lure shoppers with heavily discounted luxury goods that don’t exist. Trust your instincts – high discounts on high-demand products should raise a red flag.
  3. Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links: Phishing emails spike during the holidays. These emails may claim to be from popular brands or delivery services, urging you to “verify your account” or “track your package.” Always go directly to the company’s website instead of clicking on links in emails.
  4. Use Secure Payment Methods: Pay using secure options like debit cards or payment platforms with buyer protection. Avoid direct bank transfers, as they’re harder to trace and recover in case of fraud.
  5. Strengthen Your Cyber Defenses: Update your device software, use strong passwords, and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible. These steps can protect you from hackers seeking to exploit vulnerabilities.

Remember, deals that look too good to be true often are. Protect your credit and debit card information and account details by being cautious and vigilant. If you receive any suspicious emails related to your bank account, report them immediately to our customer service team at customerservice@zicb.co.zm.

The festive season should be about joy, connection, and celebration – not financial stress or fraud worries. By staying vigilant and following these simple precautions, you can enjoy the holiday cheer without falling victim to scams.

Wishing you a safe and joyful holiday season!