Borrowers told not to disclose personal info over phone

The Central Bank has advised borrowers not to disclose personal or financial details over the phone to unverified callers amid concerns that banks are using blocked numbers to ring customers who are in arrears.

“No consumer should disclose their personal or financial details over the phone or in response to correspondence unless they are satisfied as to the legitimacy of the call,” said a spokeswoman.

“The Central Bank’s Consumer Protection Code requires representatives of regulated entities, when making telephone contact, to immediately identify their name, the name of the regulated entity, and the purpose of the contact.”