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LIFESTYLE

CaixaBank's last-minute alert to its customers: be careful with this in February

CaixaBank has warned its users in Spain about the growing danger of 'spear phishing'

February has started with another scam alert from CaixaBank. Scams are increasingly common, and customers must be informed to know how to act.

Therefore, CaixaBank has issued an urgent statement directed at its customers. The leading bank in Spain has warned about the increase in 'spear phishing' attacks. This type of scam uses advanced techniques to deceive victims in a personalized way.

A CaixaBank branch with a red circle showing a person using a mobile phone.
With these measures, CaixaBank aims to strengthen information security | Europa Press, Pexels, Bongkarn Thanyaki

CaixaBank warns of the 'spear phishing' scam

'Spear phishing' is a fraud in which criminals study their targets to craft seemingly legitimate messages. Unlike mass scams, strikers select specific individuals and gather data that allows them to personalize their communications.

For example, a fraudulent email may include the recipient's name, address, or even details about their position in their company. This way, the message mimics the usual style of a bank or another trusted organization, thus creating a false sense of security.

The operation of this scam begins with the careful selection of potential victims. Criminals investigate social networks, exploit data leaks, and analyze online publications to collect relevant information. With this data, they craft messages that appeal to urgency and request actions that facilitate information theft.

A person holds a mobile phone displaying the CaixaBank logo in front of a branch of the bank.
If you receive any communication that raises doubts, verify its authenticity | Google Maps, Ton Photographer 4289, CaixaBank, en.edatv.news

Among the most serious consequences are access to sensitive personal or business data. But also the execution of financial fraud and the installation of malicious software.

How to protect yourself from this fraud that CaixaBank warns about

CaixaBank insists that protection against this type of fraud doesn't depend solely on having antivirus or firewalls. The weak point in these attacks is precisely the user, as the amount of personal information can lead one to think that the message is reliable.

In this scenario, the bank recommends its customers take extra precautions and follow these tips. If a message is received requesting personal data or access to a link, its origin should be confirmed through official channels.

A pensive man with his hands together in front of a CaixaBank building.
When in doubt, it's preferable to contact CaixaBank's customer service. | Europa Press, Getty Images de PRUDENCIOALVAREZ, en.edatv.news

Messages that impose short deadlines or create pressure to act immediately are a warning sign. In case of doubt, it's preferable to contact CaixaBank's customer service to confirm the authenticity of the information received.

The impact of 'spear phishing' on the banking sector

'Spear phishing' has become one of the most dangerous scams in the digital world. Its effectiveness lies in the personalization of the attack. Criminals take advantage of any detail that facilitates the identification of a potential victim, using social engineering techniques that have proven effective.

Moreover, this type of fraud affects both individuals and companies. This has undoubtedly led multiple banks in Spain to redouble their security efforts.

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