Mbabane – FNB Eswatini, in collaboration with the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), hosted a fraud awareness workshop for the bank’s employees. The workshop, held at the FNB Eswatini Head Office in Ezulwini, aimed to educate staff on the latest fraud scams and security practices ahead of the busy festive season.
As part of FNB’s wider Fraud Awareness Campaign, the workshop focused on equipping employees with the tools to identify, prevent, and respond to fraud, protecting both themselves and the bank’s customers. FNB staff were briefed on current fraud trends, detection techniques, and prevention strategies. REPS facilitators also advised on home security, stressing measures such as installing cameras, alarm systems, and proper fencing, to reduce vulnerability to crime during the holiday season.
FNB’s Chief Risk Officer (CRO), Gugu Matiwane, explained that the bank’s investment in employee education was key to ensuring the safety of its customers. “It is important for us that our employees are well-informed about fraud risks and know how to protect themselves. When they are properly equipped, they can better advise customers, spot potential threats, and prevent fraudsters from succeeding,” said Matiwane.
She further expressed gratitude for REPS’ support in the bank’s fraud awareness initiatives, which have proven to be vital in the fight against financial crimes.
Nicholas Jele, Director of the Fraud and Commercial Crimes Unit in the REPS, commended FNB for organizing such workshops, particularly as the festive season approaches. “This period is a prime time for fraudsters to target unsuspecting victims. We are here to raise awareness and encourage employees to report any fraudulent activity they detect,” Jele said, highlighting the strong relationship between REPS and FNB.
Matiwane also issued a warning to FNB customers, urging them to remain vigilant and cautious when receiving communications about their bank accounts. “If you ever have doubts about the authenticity of any communication regarding your account, immediately call our toll-free number on 800 6100,” she advised.
REPS representatives who were present during the session included Assistant Inspector Bheka Masilela, Sergeant Mlungisi Malinga, and Constable Badelisa Magagula.
FNB also provided staff with essential fraud safety tips, emphasizing that the bank will never:
- Call customers via WhatsApp
- Ask customers to transfer money to themselves or a third party
- Request card numbers or PINs
- Ask for one-time passwords (OTPs) for eWallet transactions
In the event that customers suspect their accounts have been compromised, FNB has outlined several steps to assist in securing the account, including blocking cards via the app, placing a hold on the account to prevent any further transactions, and delinking unauthorized devices.
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