Cyber Security Awareness Tips: Your Security Is Our Priority!
At Awash Bank, protecting your personal and financial information is our top priority. Your vigilance, together with our robust security measures, ensures a safe banking experience.
Stay alert, stay safe, and report anything suspicious.
Phishing and Social Engineering
Fraudsters try to trick customers into giving sensitive information through emails, text messages, or phone calls. Techniques include:
- Phishing: Fake emails appearing to be from the bank asking for passwords or account details.
- Vishing: Phone calls claiming to be the bank or government requesting confidential information.
- Smishing: SMS messages containing malicious links or requests for personal information.
- Quishing (QR Code Phishing): Fake QR codes in emails, messages, or posters that lead to malicious websites asking for sensitive banking information.
- Verify first: Never click on links or open attachments from unknown sources.
- Check sender details: Fraud emails often have misspellings or unofficial addresses.
- Stay calm: Don’t act under pressure from urgent requests.
- Report suspicious messages to Awash Bank immediately.
- Monitor accounts regularly for unusual activity.
- Avoid discussing or sharing personal or banking information in public places.
Strong Passwords and Two/Multi-Factor Authentication (2FA/MFA)
Strong and unique passwords are your first line of defense. Two-Factor or Multi-Factor Authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring verification beyond just your password.
- Use long passphrases instead of simple words.
- Never reuse passwords across accounts.
- Enable 2FA/MFA wherever possible.
- Change passwords regularly, especially after suspicious activity.
- Avoid storing passwords in browsers or unsecured files.
- Never Share your password with anybody.
Secure Online & Mobile Banking
Online and mobile banking are convenient but require careful practices:
- Always log off after each session.
- Use the official Awash Bank app or website only.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for transactions; use secure networks.
- Look for “https://” and the lock icon (🔒) before entering sensitive info.
- Keep devices and apps updated with the latest security patches.
- Ensure your phone number and email address are up to date with Awash Bank to receive security alerts promptly.
Malware and Device Security
Malware (viruses, ransomware…) can compromise your devices. Protect your devices with updated software and security tools.
- Install antivirus/anti-malware software.
- Enable automatic OS and app updates.
- Avoid downloading apps or files from unknown sources.
- Back up data regularly.
- Do not open suspicious email attachments or links.
Card Security and ATM Safety
Fraudsters may attempt to steal card details or PINs through physical and digital means. Protect your cards and transactions carefully.
- Keep your card secure at all times, like cash.
- Memorize your PIN; never write it down.
- Do not share PINs, CVV, or card details with anyone.
- Store your debit/credit cards and other sensitive identification documents in secure locations.
- Report lost/stolen cards immediately.
- Shred bank statements and other sensitive banking documents before disposing them.
- Shield the keypad while entering your PIN.
- Observe surroundings for suspicious activity.
- Never accept help from strangers at ATMs.
- Avoid ATMs with unusual devices or hidden cameras.
- Wait until transactions are fully complete and log out before leaving.
- Check account statements regularly for unauthorized transactions.
Safe Online Shopping
Online shopping carries risks if websites are insecure.
- Shop only on reputable, trusted websites.
- Look for “https://” and the lock icon before entering card info.
- Avoid public computers or Wi-Fi for purchases.
- Keep anti-virus and firewalls updated.
- Review privacy policies to know how your information is used.
Impersonation Threats
Fraudsters may create fake websites, social media accounts, or messages that look like Awash Bank.
Use only official Awash Bank channels:
LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/company/awash-bank-s-c/
TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@awashbank_tiktok
Telegram : https://t.me/awash_bank_official
YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/awashbankAb
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/bankawash
X/Twitter : https://twitter.com/bankawash
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/awash_bank/
Never share passwords, PINs, or OTPs with unverified sources.
Avoid clicking unfamiliar links or responding to suspicious messages.
Report impersonation attempts immediately.
Reporting Suspicious Activity
Immediate action can prevent financial loss.
- Stop immediately: Do not click links or respond to suspicious messages.
- Do not share personal info with unverified contacts.
- Contact Awash Bank immediately:
Telephone: +251-11-557-3570/ +251-11-557-0087/ 8980
Email: SOC@awashbank.com / contactcenter@awashbank.com
- Monitor accounts for irregularities.
- Keep a record of suspicious messages.
Conclusion
Your safety is our shared responsibility. By following these guidelines, you protect yourself and help maintain the integrity of Awash Bank’s services.
Stay alert, stay informed, and always report suspicious activity.
