The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) is urging residents and businesses to ignore requests from fake bank agents, via persuasive calls or messages, to download and install AnyDesk remote desktop software on their devices. The BPS is aware that fraudsters are abusing AnyDesk to steal money from local bank accounts.
An actual bank representative would never insist that any resident or business download and install remote access apps, like AnyDesk or TeamViewer, to their computers or mobile phones, for technical support purposes.
The Approach
Unknown con artists, posing as bank fraud investigators, call or message, claiming they are investigating suspicious transactions. Part of this scam involves the installation of remote access software, including AnyDesk, often through malicious websites. The criminals then gain remote access and initiate unauthorised bank transfers.
Residents & Businesses: Stay Alert
Never follow instructions to transfer money to a “safe account.” Any request to do this should be refused.
Exercise caution with urgent payment requests. Businesses should ensure that employees responsible for initiating or approving payments take the time to verify unusual requests, particularly those involving international transfers.
Report suspected fraud promptly. If personal information has already been shared, remote access to devices granted or funds transferred, contact your bank immediately using the number on your bank card and report the matter to the Bermuda Police Service.
Once again, don’t take any call, text message, or e-mail, with instructions to act urgently, at face value.
Slow down. Independently verify any claims through the relevant bank, via their official contact information and take extra precautions by activating additional security measures, like multi-factor authentication, to avoid unapproved account activity.
