Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB) would like to remind the public to be cautious of news created by artificial intelligence (AI). AI can generate realistic texts, images, and videos that may appear legitimate but are actually false or misleading. This warning is issued following recent AI-generated fake news misusing BDCB’s name and logo. 

These fake news are often posted on social media and use “clickbait headlines” to attract readers’ attention and deceive them into providing personal or financial information. They also often promote unlicensed financial products/services or deceive the victim into installing malicious applications on their electronic devices. 

In this regard, BDCB strongly advises the public to be vigilant and exercise caution by:

a. Verifying sources

Do not believe everything shared on social media and always verify the legitimacy of a website or news story before sharing it with family and friends. Reliable information about BDCB can be found on the BDCB website and official social media accounts. BDCB regularly publishes press releases and other communications materials on these platforms. When in doubt, refer to BDCB’s official channels or hotlines. 

b. Being wary of sensational claims

Be wary of news that seems exaggerated or too good to be true, especially if it involves elements of financial scams, such as using the names of famous people or promotes high returns within a s short period of time.

c. Avoiding unlicensed entities

Only deal with entities regulated by BDCB. If you deal with unlicensed or unregulated entities, you will not have the protection offered by BDCB’s legal framework This legal framework is meant to protect the public, as financial consumers, by making sure only qualified and licensed entities can provide financial services. 

d. Keeping your personal information safe

Never share sensitive personal and/or financial information with other people, including family and friends.

e. Reporting suspicious content

Report any suspicious financial activities to BDCB’s Financial Consumer Issues at 2380007/8380007 or email fci@bdcb.gov.bn.

Members of the public may report suspicious activities on social media directly to the social media service (e.g., Facebook or Meta) and to the Brunei Computer Emergency Response Team (BruCERT) hotline 2458001, email reporting@brucert.org.bn, or WhatsApp 7170766.

BDCB would also like to emphasise that misusing its name or logo, or using its name or logo without permission, is an offence under Section 74A of the BDCB Order, 2010. This offence carries a penalty of a fine not exceeding BND20,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding seven years, or both.

BDCB is dedicated to maintaining Brunei Darussalam’s financial stability and protecting the country’s financial system and financial consumers. BDCB will also continue to actively monitor any suspicious or unlicensed financial activities in Brunei Darussalam. 

For the list of financial institutions licensed by BDCB as well as the BDCB Alert List, please visit the BDCB website at www.bdcb.gov.bn

Beware and Stay Alert of Fake News Generated By Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Beware and Stay Alert of Fake News Generated By Artificial Intelligence (AI) (MY)