Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB) would like to remind the public to only deal with financial institutions licensed by BDCB and to avoid engaging with any unlicensed companies or individuals offering financial products or services. Activities that require licensing from BDCB include deposit-taking, money lending, investment schemes, insurance/takaful services, money remittance, money changing, and pawnbroking.

This reminder is issued as unauthorised financial service offerings have become increasingly common on social media and online platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, and WhatsApp, where unlicensed entities may use misleading information and persuasive tactics to target members of the public, particularly those in vulnerable situations.

The public is strongly advised to ensure that any company or individual offering financial services is licensed by BDCB before entering into any financial transaction or commitment. Dealing with unlicensed or unregulated entities can expose consumers to significant financial risks, such as losing their money with little or no chance of recovery, being misled by false promises of returns, facing hidden fees or unfair terms, and having no access to proper complaint channels or regulatory protection under BDCB’s framework.

In this regard, the public is encouraged to:

• Check BDCB’s list of licensed financial institutions available on the BDCB website at www.bdcb.gov.bn; 

• Refer to the BDCB Alert List for entities known or suspected of operating without authorisation. It is important to note that absence from the list does not mean the entity is authorised or safe to deal with; and 

• Avoid sharing sensitive personal or financial information with unknown or unverified parties.

Members of the public who fall victim to such activities are advised to lodge a report immediately with the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) at the nearest police station or by calling the Anti-Scam Helpline at 16993. If the public encounters or suspects any individual or entity offering unlicensed financial services, they may contact BDCB at +673 8380007 (during working hours) or email fci@bdcb.gov.bn.

BDCB remains committed to safeguarding the financial stability of Brunei Darussalam and the interests of financial consumers. BDCB will also continue to actively monitor any suspicious or unlicensed financial activities in Brunei Darussalam. The public plays a vital role in this effort by remaining vigilant and making informed financial decisions.

Beware of Unlicensed Entities Offering Financial Products and Services