For the second morning in a row, I received a bogus email claiming to be from AIB (Allied Irish Bank) which told me that my account has been locked. This is of course a fraudulent attempt to lure me to a bogus website where I might blindly enter my banking details only to have them stolen by those behind this scam. This technique is commonly known in Internet circles as Phishing.
The reasons I know this is a scam include:
- I’m not that stupid!
- I do not have an account with AIB
- I know that banks don’t communicate this way
- My bank does not have my email address
- Some of the terminology used in the message doesn’t quite read correctly
If (and when) you receive emails like this, ask yourself the above questions before binning the message.
The full text of the email reads as follows:
Dear Customer,
AIB Group is constantly working to increase security for all online banking users. To ensure the integrity of our online payment system, we periodically review accounts. Your account have been placed on hold due possible errors dectected with your AIB code card. Restricted accounts will not be able to receive payments, send payments or withdraw funds. All restricted accounts have their billing information unconfirmed, until updated on file.
To initiate the update confirmation process, you are now required to follow the link below and fill in the necessary fields. Kindly click on the link below to continue with the verification process and ensure the security of your account.
Account Re-activation
Important Notice: You are strictly advised to match your information rightly to avoid service suspension.
Thank you for your co-operation.
AIB and AIB Group are registered business names of Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. is regulated by the Financial Regulator. Registered Office: Bankcentre, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4. Tel: + 353 1 6600311 Registered in Ireland : Registered No. 24173. Copyright © Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. 1995
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