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The North African Bank has issued a strong warning to customers over the buying and selling of international cards such as Visa and MasterCard outside approved channels. The bank explained that dealing in such financial products between individuals or through intermediaries is not only unsafe but also exposes users to legal consequences and serious security risks.
According to the bank, several reports have shown that some people are using unofficial means to sell or exchange international cards, an act that is illegal and dangerous. The financial institution stressed that these practices could result in the loss of personal data, financial theft, and fraudulent activities which customers may not be able to recover from.
In its statement, the bank cautioned that international cards are strictly personal property, which means they are meant to be used only by the individual whose name appears on the card. Handing them over to another person, or using someone else’s card, goes against banking regulations and creates opportunities for misuse.
The bank also outlined some important tips to help protect customers and reduce cases of online fraud. Customers were advised never to share banking details, including card numbers, passwords, or PINs, with anyone, no matter how trusted they seem. They were also urged to avoid transacting with unauthorized agents, brokers, or online pages claiming to represent the bank.
The financial institution further encouraged clients to stay alert, especially when they notice any suspicious transaction or unauthorized deduction. Customers are to immediately contact the bank through its official website, verified social media pages, or visit the nearest branch for help.
The caution comes as part of an ongoing awareness campaign launched by the North African Bank after detecting increased attempts by fraudsters to impersonate the bank online. According to the management, fake social media pages and websites have recently been created with the aim of deceiving unsuspecting customers into releasing their personal financial details. These criminals use stolen data to make suspicious transactions, leaving victims helpless.
Bank officials emphasized that once money is withdrawn through fraudulent means, recovering it becomes nearly impossible, especially when the funds are routed through multiple channels. For this reason, the institution is appealing to customers to follow due process and protect their accounts from potential fraudsters.
The bank’s campaign is also focused on reminding customers that official financial services, including Visa and MasterCard issuance, can only be accessed directly from recognized branches or approved banking platforms. Any attempt to bypass these official channels by purchasing cards from individuals or middlemen is a violation of banking law and could result in criminal prosecution.
Industry Analysts have noted that cybercrime and online banking fraud are on the rise across North Africa, as more people depend on digital financial services. Experts say such scams thrive on misinformation, desperation, and ignorance among customers. This is why banks are stepping up public education to prevent customers from falling victim.
The North African Bank stressed that protecting customers’ financial information remains one of its top priorities. It urged all clients to play their part by being cautious and taking security guidelines seriously.
Many customers welcomed the awareness campaign, describing it as timely and necessary, especially in an era where online fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated. According to some, the spread of fake social media accounts pretending to be banks is a common trick used by criminals to lure people into disclosing sensitive information.
The institution assured the public that it is constantly monitoring suspicious activities online and is working with law enforcement agencies to clamp down on fraudsters targeting customers.
By sounding this alarm, the North African Bank hopes to reduce cases of financial fraud, secure customer accounts, and ensure trust in the banking sector remains strong.
