20th May 2025, Kathmandu
Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has called on the public to take strong steps in safeguarding their sensitive personal information. This follows a rise in cyber threats and fraudulent financial activities in the country.
Nepal Rastra Bank Privacy Warning
The central bank issued a public notice on Tuesday. The goal was to raise financial awareness and encourage personal data security among citizens.
Personal Information Must Be Handled Carefully
NRB emphasized the need to keep private documents safe. It urged everyone to think twice before sharing such information online or offline.
Documents like passports, citizenship cards, national ID cards, driver’s licenses, credit cards, and debit cards must be protected. These contain key personal details that fraudsters can misuse.
Sharing such items without caution, through emails, chats, or social media, can cause serious harm. The bank said such acts may expose individuals to identity theft and financial fraud.
Think Before You Share
The bank stated that people often send photos or photocopies of ID cards without considering the risks. Doing so can make them an easy target for cybercriminals.
NRB asked the public not to post ID photos on Facebook, Instagram, or other platforms. Even emailing them without encryption can be dangerous.
Fraudsters monitor such spaces for personal information. Once they get hold of your ID details, they can use them to access financial systems or even impersonate you.
Fraudsters are Getting Smarter
NRB warned that digital crime is becoming more advanced in Nepal. Many criminals form organized groups that specialize in financial scams.
With just a copy of a citizenship card or passport, they can open fake bank accounts, get SIM cards, or even apply for loans. Victims often find out only after they face legal or financial trouble.
This problem has grown worse with increased digital service use. Online banking, mobile wallets, and e-commerce platforms require ID verification. Hackers see this as an opportunity.
Key Documents That Require Extra Caution
The bank highlighted several documents that need protection. These include:
Passport
Citizenship certificate
National ID card (NID)
Driver’s license
Institutional ID cards
Credit and debit cards
NRB warned not to share these documents with untrusted individuals or third parties. Even sharing with someone known should be done after proper thought.
Unsafe Habits Fuel Cybercrime
People often send scanned documents through unsecured channels. Some even upload their IDs while applying for jobs, offers, or giveaways on social media.
These habits are risky. Fraudsters take advantage of such data leaks. One careless move can give criminals access to your money or digital identity.
NRB said sensitive documents must be treated like banknotes. Once stolen, the recovery process can be long and painful.
What Citizens Should Do
To avoid falling victim to fraud, the bank suggested several steps:
Avoid casual sharing of documents. Think before giving copies to anyone.
Confirm the identity of the recipient. Only share documents if you fully trust the other party.
Do not upload IDs to public sites. Social media is not a safe space for such files.
Use secure communication. If digital sharing is necessary, choose encrypted email or secure file-sharing platforms.
Limit photocopies and digital backups. Keep originals safe and only use verified copies when required.
Report suspicious activity. If you believe your data has been misused, alert your bank or the police immediately.
Digital Awareness is Vital
NRB said the rise in digital services also brings a need for greater awareness. Many people use internet banking, QR payments, or mobile wallets daily. But few understand how to protect their digital presence.
The bank said protecting data is a shared responsibility. While banks and digital service providers must use strong security tools, individuals must also act smart.
Cybercriminals target the weakest link. Often, that link is careless user behavior. A single social media post can cause long-term harm.
Stay Alert, Stay Safe
The central bank reminded people that online safety is as important as physical security. In this digital age, your data is more valuable than ever.
Once stolen, it can be sold on the dark web or used in dozens of scams. From fake job offers to loan fraud, criminals are constantly looking for new targets.
NRB’s message is clear: protect your identity, and don’t make it easy for criminals to exploit your trust.
For more: Nepal Rastra Bank Privacy Warning