The police and DBS said that banks would never send clickable links via SMS.
“Since early 2022, all banks have removed clickable links in emails or SMSes to retail customers,” said the authorities.
“This measure is among several other safeguards that banks implemented to combat the spate of phishing scams in 2022, such as lowering the default threshold for funds transfer transaction notifications to customers and increasing the frequency of its scam education alerts.”
The police and DBS advised people to install the ScamShield App to protect themselves against scam calls and SMSes. They should also enable two-factor authentication for bank accounts and e-wallets, as well as set up transaction limits.
DBS employees will never ask for internet banking credentials or OTPs, said the joint release.
Customers who suspect they may have fallen prey to scams can call DBS’ fraud hotline at 1800 339 6963, or activate the Safety Switch on DBS’ automated phone system to temporarily block access to their funds.
“DBS would assist those customers with necessary follow-up actions, including replacing their cards and lodging the fraud report,” said the police and DBS.
Those with information about such scams can call the police at 1800 255 0000 or submit it online using this link.