Indonesian Banks Alert Customers to Cyber Fraud Risks During Holidays

Increased Scams Targeting Banking Customers

As Indonesia enters the holiday season at the end of 2025, major banks are warning customers about a surge in cyber fraud attempts. PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BNI) and PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BRI) have issued alerts about scammers using holiday greetings as a vehicle for malicious activities.

Common Fraud Tactics

Scammers are sending messages containing Christmas greetings with attached files or links that appear to be gift applications in Android APK format. These applications contain malware that can record personal data and banking information. Once installed, the malware allows fraudsters to access and drain customer accounts.

Banking Industry Response

Corporate Secretary of BNI, Okki Rushartomo, emphasized the need for customers to be vigilant against messages with suspicious links or files, particularly during holiday periods when vigilance may be lower. BRI's Director of Information Technology, Saladin D. Effendi, noted that the bank is not only enhancing its IT infrastructure security but also educating customers about potential fraud risks.

Customer Safety Recommendations

1. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from unknown sources
2. Verify message authenticity through official banking channels
3. Never share sensitive banking information such as card numbers, CVV/CVC, PIN, or One Time Password (OTP)
4. Use official banking applications downloaded from trusted platforms
5. Maintain up-to-date antivirus software and regular system updates
6. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for banking transactions

By following these guidelines, customers can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to cyber fraud during the holiday season.