BIBD Supports AITI’s Digital Warga Emas Programme To Raise Awareness On Online Scams And Promote Online Safety Among Senior Citizens

BIBD recently participated in the Digital Warga Emas initiative, an ongoing programme by the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI), aimed at encouraging digital adoption among all segments of society, particularly senior citizens. As part of this initiative, BIBD conducted an informative session on recognising scams, underscoring the bank’s commitment to safeguarding customers from financial fraud. 

In its talk, BIBD emphasised the importance of empowering the community, particularly the elderly, with the tools and awareness necessary to identify and avoid scams. This initiative is aligned with BIBD’s continuous efforts to educate the public on scam prevention, and to empower customers to avoid falling prey to fraudulent schemes. 

During the session, BIBD highlighted several real-world examples drawn from customer complaints and viral social media posts. Unfortunately, many of these cases involved customers misusing their own accounts by renting out their accounts to third parties. These actions not only put the customers at risk of financial loss, but also undermine the security of the broader financial ecosystem. 

BIBD also touched on the growing trend of individuals becoming entangled in “get rich quick” schemes or pyramid schemes. The bank has observed that some customers, seeking fast gains, end up compromising their own financial integrity by participating in such fraudulent activities. This not only exposes them to significant personal risk, but also contributes to a concerning rise in scam-related complaints. 

BIBD works closely with the relevant authorities to investigate such complaints, ensuring that each case is handled with the seriousness it deserves. The bank remains committed to maintaining the integrity of the financial system in Brunei and to continuously enhancing its security measures. 

BIBD encourages customers to come forward and liaise directly with the bank to resolve any issues, and to avoid (mengelakkan) spreading unsubstantiated claims on social media that may cause public alarm. BIBD reminds the public that it reserves the right to take legal action under the Public Order Act against those found knowingly spreading false or unverified claims. As mentioned by BIBD’s Chairman, Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, during the recent AGM, BIBD would not hesitate to take legal action under the Public Order Act against any individuals found to be spreading false information, as part of its commitment to fostering trust and transparency. 

Through its participation in initiatives like Digital Warga Emas, BIBD remains focused on promoting greater digital literacy and responsible online behaviour, especially among vulnerable segments of society. The bank urges all its customers to remain vigilant, to avoid sharing personal banking details, and to consult with bank representatives if in doubt about the legitimacy of any financial offer or request. 

BIBD will continue to work closely with relevant authorities and support AITI in their mission to increase digital adoption and financial safety for all members of the community, in line with its commitment to fostering a digitally literate and financially empowered society in Brunei.