Recently, several customers have reported falling victim to a new telephone scam. The scammer pretends to be from Proximus and encourages the victim to install a malicious app on their smartphone.
Here's how the scam works:
You receive a call from someone who claims to be from Proximus and says that your SIM card needs to be renewed for security reasons.
The caller then asks you to install an application sent via WhatsApp. This application is actually a malicious .apk file (only possible on Android).
In order to install it, you must change a system setting to allow "unknown sources."
Once installed, the fraudster takes control of your smartphone. They can access your mobile banking services and make fraudulent transfers, sometimes using your PIN or the ITSME app.
Several victims have reported that their screens go black and their smartphones become unusable after installing this application.
Key points:
- Never change your smartphone's security settings at the request of a stranger.
- Never download an application via a WhatsApp link, text message, or email.
- A telephone operator will never ask you to install an application for security reasons.
- If you have installed such an app, turn off your phone immediately and contact your bank. Send your screenshot to Safeonweb at suspicious@safeonweb.be.
Stay alert! Fraudsters are becoming increasingly convincing and using the names of trusted companies to trap you.
Are you a victim?
From the moment you lose money to a cybercriminal, we recommend that you report it to the police. You can report it to your local police station.
Contact your bank and/or Card Stop on 078 170 170 if you have provided additional bank details to a fraudster. This will allow any fraudulent transactions to be blocked.
