Special Correspondence; Dhaka – Bangladesh Bank has issued a stern warning to the public regarding the risks of converting standard plastic debit or credit cards into metal versions through unauthorized third-party providers.

The central bank categorized this practice as “highly risky” for financial security.

The Scam Explained

In a statement released via its official Facebook page on Thursday night, the central bank noted that several unauthorized organizations are currently tempting customers to transform their plastic cards into metal ones.

To perform this conversion, customers are often required to share sensitive data, including:

• Full card numbers

• Expiry dates

• CVV codes

Key Risks Identified by Bangladesh Bank

Bangladesh Bank emphasized that these service providers are not authorized by any bank or regulatory authority. The primary risks involved include:

• Data Breach: Leakage of confidential information leading to potential fraud.

• Unauthorized Transactions: High probability of illegal funds withdrawal or purchases.

• Financial Loss: Significant damage to the customer’s financial security and data privacy.

• Systemic Risk: Increased vulnerability within the overall national card management system.

Advisory for Customers

The central bank has urged all cardholders to refrain from sharing card details with unauthorized individuals or entities. Customers are advised to use only the official and approved channels provided by their respective banks.

The warning concluded with a reminder that financial security is the highest priority. Customers should never share their One-Time Password (OTP) or card details with anyone and must contact their bank immediately if they notice any suspicious activity.