Bangladesh Bank (BB) has instructed all scheduled banks, Mobile Financial Services (MFS) providers and payment system operators to ensure uninterrupted and secure digital transactions during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, reports UNB.
In a circular issued on Monday, the central bank directed financial institutions to maintain round-the-clock operations across electronic payment platforms to facilitate smooth transactions for the public during the festive period.
Banks have been asked to keep Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) fully operational with sufficient cash supply, ensure prompt resolution of technical problems, maintain 24-hour security, and regularly monitor ATM operations.
The circular also emphasised that Point of Sale (POS) and QR code-based payment services must remain active. Banks were advised to increase awareness among merchants and customers to prevent fraud during the holiday rush.
The central bank stressed the importance of secure internet banking and online e-payment gateways, including the mandatory use of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for “card not present” transactions.
Banks were also instructed to credit beneficiary accounts immediately after receiving settlement reports with an “85” response code.
For MFS providers such as bKash, Nagad and Rocket, Bangladesh Bank directed that services remain uninterrupted across all platforms and that agents maintain adequate cash to meet withdrawal demand.
To strengthen consumer protection, the central bank ordered financial institutions to send instant SMS alerts for transactions of any amount, enhance cybersecurity measures and keep customer helplines fully operational.
Banks and MFS providers were also urged to run public awareness campaigns through mass media to promote safe and secure electronic payment practices during the Eid holidays.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
