Bank of Ireland is warning that fraudsters are still sending out a high volume of fraudulent ‘eFlow’ text messages, with up to 10 fake eFlow sites being set up in a day.
They have also warned that fraudsters are planning to clone other Irish brands, including energy providers, to use as a method of scamming customers.
Fraudsters pretending to be the motorway toll operator eFlow are sending messages urging customers to pay outstanding toll charges or update account details, containing fake links in an attempt to collect personal card and online banking details.
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Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud, Bank of Ireland explained that smishing attacks "tend to come in waves."
"But this latest attack, with fraudsters sending messages purporting to come from eFlow, has lasted now for several months, which is unusual. Based on intelligence we have received, we are also expecting fraudsters to ramp up activity cloning other well-known Irish brands in the coming months, particularly electricity and gas companies," Ms Sadlier said.
After clicking on an eFlow text message which leads to a fake website, some customers end up providing their confidential card and bank account details.
"The number of fake eFlow websites has been steadily increasing - we’re seeing anything up to 10 sites being set up by fraudsters in a day," Ms Sadlier outlined.
Those who recently passed through a toll, are the most susceptible to what may seem like a genuine text.
Ms Sadlier added: "eFlow has advised that they do not send text messages with links to confirm account or payment details. Text messages purporting to be from any company should be treated with extreme caution – the general rule is to stop, think and check.”
Bank of Ireland’s advice to customers in response to the current smishing scam:
- Do not click on links or respond to SMS text messages which appear as if sent by a motorway toll operator looking for payment for an unpaid toll
- Remember that companies such as these, or banks, delivery companies, utility providers and Government agencies will never send a text linking to a website that requests online banking details.
- eFlow has advised that they do not send text messages with links to confirm account or payment details.
- Verify the identity of the sender. Call the company using their legitimate phone number (ensure you source it independently of any SMS);
- If you get a suspicious text, please email a screenshot of the text to 365Security@boi.com and then delete the text; and
- Bank of Ireland customers who think they gave away their banking details should call our 24/7 Freephone line 1800 946 764 immediately.
For more advice and information on fraud, visit boi.com/security or www.fraudsmart.ie
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