Biman warns of online fraud using its name, logo, and staff identities

Some fraudulent individuals and online travel agencies have recently been using the name, logo, and staff identities of Biman Bangladesh Airlines to deceive customers and extort money.

According to a press release, members of these fraud rings contact customers using various phone numbers while falsely identifying themselves as Biman staff. To gain the victims' trust, the fraudsters initially provide a passenger name record (PNR) and later demand payment.

After receiving the payment, they either cancel the PNR or, in cases where the ticket is not confirmed, it is automatically cancelled after a certain period.

The press release mentions that many customers are unaware that a PNR and a ticket are not the same. A PNR only indicates a seat reservation but does not guarantee ticket issuance. A valid ticket is essential for confirmed travel.

If a ticket is not issued after generating a PNR, the reservation can be cancelled at any time, making the passenger ineligible to board the flight.

Biman urges customers to verify any PNR provided by agents before making any payment by contacting the nearest Biman sales centre or calling the airline's call centre at 13636.

It has come to light that the fraudsters have used mobile numbers 01749881978 and 01322878863, along with bank accounts at Islami Bank (A/C No: 20503100201880211) and First Security Islami Bank (A/C No: 013914300000215), to scam large sums of money, the press release reads.

Biman says to avoid such fraud, passengers are strongly advised to purchase tickets only through Biman's official sales offices, website, call centre, or IATA-authorised travel agencies.

Those who have already fallen victim to such scams are advised to file a complaint at their nearest police station.