RCBC encourages public to be cyber resilient

A whole-nation approach is essential to make Filipinos resilient against rising cyber attacks – this was highlighted at the recently concluded Cybersecurity Virtual Event organized by Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC).

RCBC gathered industry experts, including former assistant secretary for cybersecurity and enabling technologies at the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Allan Cabanlong and Manila Bulletin technology editor and information and communications technology head Art Samaniego, Jr.

The former DICT official stressed that awareness is key in helping Filipinos become cyber resilient, highlighting a “whole of nation, whole of government, and whole of society approach” in cybersecurity.

“Be always suspicious. We need to have constant awareness and constant discussion,” Cabanlong said, adding that the public should boost their guards by installing firewalls, and antivirus software and by using strong passwords.

Meanwhile, Samaniego said that the role of the public and private sectors is also essential in letting the public know about the latest technology and how it can help protect against cybercriminals.

“While it is the responsibility of the users to look out for themselves, the public and private sectors need to equip us so we know how to use the latest technology. Users should be responsible for cooperating with the private sector and for the government to prosecute cyber criminals. The government and the private sector should work together,” Samaniego said.

Recognizing the crucial part it plays in protecting its customers against cyber threats, RCBC expressed support for the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ call to remove all clickable links in client communications, including emails, SMS, and Viber amid the rising cases of text-based scams.

RCBC is also encouraging its clients to use the security features available on its online banking platform – RCBC Digital – such as biometrics log-in, one-time password (OTP), and the card lock/unlock function.

“RCBC is committed to make sure that our clients are well aware of cybercrime threats such as phishing, vishing, and email compromise, and that they are equipped with proper knowledge to protect themselves from these attacks,” said RCBC chief information security officer Carlos Tengkiat.

“At the same time, the bank will continue to be the best partner for our clients in terms of accelerating digitalization and making our online banking services safe and convenient for them,” he added.