1LINK Issues Public Advisory to Counter False Rumors on Social Media

1LINK, the leading payment gateway system in Pakistan, has released a public advisory addressing false rumors spreading on social media and WhatsApp. These baseless claims suggest that ATMs and online banking services in Pakistan are at risk. 1LINK has strongly urged the public to disregard these rumors, emphasizing that the information circulating is unsubstantiated.

Recalling Previous Cyber Threats and Response

In a statement issued on Sunday, 1LINK referred to a similar scare that occurred in 2017 during the ‘Wannacry Ransomware’ cyber attack. This attack targeted Microsoft Windows machines, including those used by banks. However, the Pakistani banking sector successfully defended against those attacks, demonstrating its resilience and strong cybersecurity measures.

State Bank of Pakistan and 1LINK’s Vigilant Security Measures

1LINK has advised the public to stay calm and not to give in to these hoaxes. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), in collaboration with banks and 1LINK, is actively working to safeguard the nation’s financial infrastructure and digital payments ecosystem. They ensure compliance with strict IT and security protocols, maintaining robust defenses against potential cyber threats. The entity has clarified that no cyber threats have been detected in the ATM and online banking systems, and the financial services industry remains as vigilant as ever.

Safety Tips for Secure Banking

To ensure your safety while banking, whether at ATMs, branches, or online, 1LINK recommends the following precautions:

• Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings when using ATMs or conducting online banking.
• Protect Your Information: Never share your payment card details or personal information, including card numbers, PINs, OTPs, user IDs, and passwords.
• Inspect ATMs: Check ATMs for any unusual attachments that could potentially be skimming devices.
• Avoid Suspicious Links: Do not click on suspicious links or provide personal information online.
• Log Out After Use: Always log out of your online banking session once completed.
• Monitor Account Activity: Regularly review your account statements and report any unauthorized transactions or lost/stolen cards to your bank immediately.

By following these guidelines, you can help protect your financial information and ensure a secure banking experience.