Former Bank Hapoalim (LSE: BKHD; TASE: POLI) unit Bank Otzar Hahayal customers were sent bogus emails in a phishing scam.
The English language emails claimed that as of July, 2009, Bank Hapoalim will operate a new method of entering the site, and customers were asked to receive a new password by entering their credit card number and ATM card password. Customers were warned that failure to do so would lead to their accounts being frozen.
Bank Otzar Hahayal was a Bank Hapoalim subsidiary until it was sold approximately two years ago. Bank Hapoalim still provides computer services to the bank.
Bank Hapoalim said in response, "The bank has been made aware of "phishing" attempts through various bank sites. A site presented itself falsely as a site of Bank Otzar Hahayal. The bank moved immediately to close the false site."
The bank emphasized that there was no breach into customers' accounts, and that the bank gives its customers protection for "Poalim online" transactions.
The English website of Bank Otzar Hahayal includes a link with general information and warnings about phishing, and how to avoid becoming a victim.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on August 24, 2008
© Copyright of Globes Publisher Itonut (1983) Ltd. 2008