Iraq’s central bank warns public against sharing personal, financial data

BAGHDAD — The Central Bank of Iraq issued a warning Saturday urging citizens not to share personal or financial information with any unauthorized individuals or entities claiming to represent the bank.

“The Central Bank of Iraq warns citizens, particularly retirees, against dealing with individuals or entities impersonating bank employees or falsely claiming to represent the bank, and requesting personal data or official documents such as retirement IDs or financial information,” the bank said in a statement.

The bank emphasized that no licensed financial institution requests personal banking data, card information, or account details from citizens through social media or phone calls, nor does it offer loans or require documents via such channels.

“Any such request is considered a fraud attempt aimed at exploiting citizens and stealing their data,” the statement said.

Citizens were advised not to share any personal or financial details with unofficial parties and to report any suspicious calls or messages immediately through the Central Bank’s official channels or to relevant security authorities.

In late September, Iraq’s National Security Service warned citizens of new fraud attempts using malicious WhatsApp links, saying attackers aim to seize accounts, steal financial data, and extort money.