Cyber Security

At Qatar International Islamic Bank (QIIB), your security is our top priority. QIIB is committed to providing a safe and secure banking environment for all customers. However, cyber-attacks, fraud and identity theft are increasing rapidly. It is important to recognize that security against fraud is a shared responsibility.

QIIB has implemented top-tier cyber security measures and controls such as data encryption, robust incident response plan, regular security audit, and many other measures to ensure that your data in transit and at rest and also all the transactions remain secure. Additionally, customers’ commitment to some security practices is crucial when using QIIB Internet Services.

Here are some essential tips and information to help you protect your personal and financial information. These security measures are designed to protect our customers from fraud.

Keep Your Personal, Sensitive and Financial Information Confidential:

  • Do Not Disclose Personal Information: Avoid sharing personal information through email or through messaging services, (e.g., your QID, passport, full address, birthdate, etc.…) unless it is being requested by official and trusted entities.
  • Protect Your Financial Information: Do Not disclose or share financial information, such as bank account password, OTPs, PINs, or credit card numbers. Do not respond to emails or phone calls requesting for this information. Remember, QIIB would never ask for these details.
  • Report Lost or Stolen Checks/Cards: Report immediately any lost or stolen checks or credit/debit cards.
  • Report Suspicious Activities: Report any suspicious activity on your bank accounts or through internet and mobile banking applications.

Be Aware of Social Engineering Attacks:

Social engineering attacks exploit human psychology to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information or performing actions that compromise their bank accounts or their personal information security. Understanding different types of scams and cyber-attacks is crucial for protecting your personal and financial information. Here are some common tactics used by fraudsters:

  • Phishing: Phishing is where someone send an email to you pretending to be from a legitimate organization and attempting to trick you to share personal or financial information, such as passwords or bank cards numbers. Or to carry out tasks that lead to the theft of your bank accounts or unauthorized money transfers.
  • Vishing: Voice phishing where someone calls you pretending to be from a legitimate organization, such as your bank, to steal your personal or financial information such as passwords, OTPs, credit/debit cards number, or carry out tasks that lead to the theft of your bank accounts or unauthorized attempts to money transfers.
  • Pretexting: Creating a fake story or scenario to trick you into sharing personal or financial information, often by pretending to be someone you know or trust.
  • Baiting: Offering you something attractive, like free software or prizes, to trick you into downloading malware into your devices that can steal personal or financial information.

Customers Should be Aware by:  

  • Identifying Phishing Emails: Be cautious of emails that ask for personal/ financial information, contain urgent requests, or have suspicious attachments or links.
  • Verifying Before You Click: Always verify the authenticity of emails and websites by checking the sender’s email address and the URL before clicking any links.
  • Identifying Vishing/Fraud Calls: Be cautious of calls that ask for personal/ financial information, contain urgent or suspicious requests.
  • Reporting Suspicious Activity: If you receive a suspicious email, message, call claiming to be from QIIB, report it to us immediately at by calling QIIB Hotline (+974) 44840005.

Protect Your Devices:

  • Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, browser, and other software to protect against security vulnerabilities.
  • Install Anti-malware Software: Use reputable and licensed antivirus/ antimalware software and renew it regularly to protect your devices from malware and viruses.
  • Use Secure Networks: Avoid accessing your bank accounts over public Wi-Fi networks and always use a secure and private network.

QIIB Website and Authorized Channels (Internet/ Mobile Banking):

General Security Guidelines:

  • Secure Browsing:
    • Pay attention to the Uniform Resource Locator (URL) of a website. Look for URLs that begin with "https" — an indication that sites are secure — rather than "http.”.
    • Every time you want to use Internet Banking, type https://www.qiib.com.qa/ in the address bar of your browser or mark it as a favorite website.
    • Never access QIIB Internet Banking Services from a link in a received email, as it may be a phishing attempt. If unsure about an email request, verify it by contacting QIIB directly. Do not use contact information provided on a suspicious email; instead, call QIIB Hotline (+974) 44840005 and report the incident immediately.
  • Legitimate QIIB Applications: Ensure you download QIIB Banking Applications from the authorized stores such as App Store or Google Play. Fake applications can be created by attackers, to steal your password and other sensitive information.

QIIB Mobile/ Internet Banking – Account Password and Security:

  • Unique Passwords: Do Not use the same password for QIIB Online Banking and other accounts such as social media or emails.
  • Avoid Auto-Save: Do Not use the password auto-save option on your browser.
  • Complex Password: Use complex and unique passwords that do not contain personal information.
  • Regular Changes: Change your password regularly.
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) for your online banking accounts.

QIIB Mobile/ Internet Banking- Account Login:

  • Secure Connection: Do Not use public Wi-Fi while accessing your Mobile or Internet Banking.
  • Avoid Public Computers: Do Not perform banking transactions on publicly accessible computers such as those in libraries, coffee shops, hotels, or airports.
  • Clear Browser Cache: Clear your browser cache after online sessions.
  • Log Off Properly: Always log-off after completing your online banking sessions.
  • Update Mobile Application: Keep all QIIB mobile banking applications updated with the latest version regularly.

Using ATMs Machines:

  • Choose ATMs Wisely: Use ATMs located in well-lit, busy areas, and avoid ATMs that appear tampered with or have suspicious devices attached such as card skimmers.
  • Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings when using an ATMs machine, especially at night. If something doesn’t feel right, cancel your transaction, and leave immediately.
  • Avoid Assistance from Stranger: While using the ATMs Machine, do not accept assistance from any strangers.
  • Shield Your PIN: Always cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN to prevent others from seeing PIN.
  • Retrieve Your Card and Cash: Make sure to collect your card and cash immediately after completing your transaction. Do not leave the ATM until the transaction is complete and the screen has returned to the main menu. If your card is captured in an ATM use alternative channels (Mobile/ Internet banking or QIIB Contact Center (+974) 44840000) to block your card before you leave the ATM.

Secure Debit/Credit Transactions:

Credit/ Debit Cards- PIN Security:

  • Keep PIN Confidential: Do Not share or disclose your cards PIN with anyone.
  • Do Not Write Your PIN on card: Never write your cards PIN on the credit/debit card.
  • Secure PIN Selection: Avoid using easily guessable numbers like 1234, 1111, or personal dates like birthdays.
  • Different PINs: Use a different PIN for each credit/debit Card.

In Store Transactions:

  • Inspect Card Readers: Always check the card readers for signs of tampering before inserting your card. If you notice any tampering or something unusual or suspicious, stop the transaction and use another machine.
  • Use Contactless Payments: Whenever possible, use contactless payment options to minimize the risk of card skimming.
  • Keep Your Card in Sight: Always keep your card within your sight during transactions to prevent unauthorized use.
  • Keep Your PIN secure: Do Not share your PIN with the store staff and ensure to enter it by yourself.
  • Cover CVC/CVV: Hide your CVC/ CVV number with a sticker.

Online Transactions:

  • Shop on Secure Websites: Ensure that the websites you shop on are secure by looking for “https” in the URL and a padlock icon in the address bar.
  • Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Do not enter your credit card information when connected to public Wi-Fi networks. Use a secure, private connection.
  • Verify OTP Messages: When you receive an OTP message always verify the transaction amount and merchant details before entering the security code on the website.
  • Do Not Share Credit/Debit Card Number: Avoid giving card information to anyone.
  • Check Transaction SMSs: Check all the messages sent from the bank regarding any banking transactions and verify all transactions, report immediately any withdrawals that you have not executed by calling QIIB Hotline (+974) 44840005.

Monitor Your Bank Accounts

  • Regularly Check Statements: Frequently review your bank statements and transaction history to detect any unauthorized transactions.
  • Enable Notifications: Enable account alerts to receive notifications of any suspicious or significant account activity.
  • Report Fraud Immediately: If you notice any unauthorized transactions, contact QIIB Hotline immediately at (+974) 44840005 to report the fraud.

Keeping Your Registered Mobile Number Updated:

A valid and updated mobile number must be registered with QIIB to ensure the below:

Security Alerts and Notifications:

  • Immediate Fraud Detection: If there is suspicious activity on your bank account, QIIB can immediately notify you via calls or SMS, allowing them to take quick action to prevent potential fraud.
  • Transaction Confirmations: You will receive instant notifications for bank transactions, helping you to verify if any unauthorized transactions are occurring on your bank account.

 

Account Management:

  • Password Resets: In case you forget their online banking password, the bank can send a verification code to your updated mobile number to reset the password securely.
  • Account Recovery: If you lose access to your account, having an updated mobile number helps in quicker and secure account recovery processes.

 

Service Updates and Changes:

  • Service Interruptions: QIIB can inform customers about planned maintenance or unexpected service disruptions affecting their banking services.
  • Policy Changes: You can receive updates about changes in bank policies, terms, or new services directly to their mobile phones.

 

Introducing New Services to Customers:

  • Promotions and Offers: The bank can inform customers about exclusive offers, promotions, and new products tailored to their needs.

 

Emergency Situations:

Natural Disasters or Crises: In case of emergencies, the bank can quickly communicate important information or instructions.

 

Regulatory Compliance:

Keeping contact details updated ensures that the bank complies with QCB regulations, maintaining the integrity and security of customer data.

 

Convenience for Customers:

Mobile Banking Alerts: Customers can receive timely updates on their account balances, bill payments, and other banking activities. 

Therefore, it is important to ensure that the phone number registered with the bank is always active and up to date.  To update your Mobile Number, please visit any of our branches. 

 

QIIB’s Commitment to Your Security:

We invest in advanced security technologies and continuously monitor our systems to protect your financial data. Our dedicated cybersecurity team works around the clock to safeguard your information from potential threats.