FSC Warns Public About Fraudulent Phone Calls Impersonating Officials

The Turks and Caicos Islands Financial Services Commission (FSC) is warning residents and businesses to be on high alert following reports of scammers posing as Commission representatives in an attempt to obtain sensitive financial information.

Kenisha Bacchus, Acting Managing Director, FSC

According to the FSC, fraudsters are making telephone calls while falsely claiming to represent the Commission. In some cases, the callers are using spoofed caller ID technology to display what appears to be official Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) or Turks and Caicos Islands Government logos, making the calls appear legitimate.

The Commission stressed that it will never contact members of the public or businesses by telephone to request personal banking information, passwords, PINs, account credentials, money transfers, or payments. Any call claiming to be from the FSC and requesting such information should be treated as fraudulent.

Anyone who receives a suspicious call is advised to hang up immediately and avoid sharing any personal, business, or banking information. The FSC also warns the public not to call back numbers provided by the caller, but instead to use only the official contact information published on the Commission's website or through their financial institution.

Individuals who receive these calls should contact their bank immediately to alert them to the incident and ask that their accounts be monitored for suspicious activity. They are also encouraged to document details of the call, including the date, time, the telephone number displayed, and the nature of the conversation. Where possible, screenshots should also be taken.

The incidents should be reported to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force by calling +1 (649) 941-8067 or +1 (649) 941-5891. Reports can also be made to the Financial Services Commission by calling +1 (649) 946-5314 or emailing fsc@tcifsc.tc.

Anyone who has already disclosed banking details or transferred funds is urged to contact their financial institution immediately and report the matter to the Police without delay.

The FSC is also reminding the public never to share passwords, PINs, one-time passcodes (OTPs), full account numbers, or online banking credentials with anyone claiming to represent the Commission. Residents are further advised to be aware that caller ID can be manipulated and should never be relied upon as proof that a caller is genuine.

The Commission is encouraging everyone in the Turks and Caicos Islands to remain vigilant, verify any suspicious communication using official contact details, and report any suspected fraud as soon as possible.