Khartoum: The Central Bank of Sudan (CBoS) has issued directives to banks, mandating the provision of services for opening bank accounts remotely through the Internet. This initiative, outlined in a pamphlet released on Monday, requires banks to adhere to specific controls and procedures. Key among these is the verification of the applicant’s identity by integrating the bank’s system with the civil registry system. Additionally, banks must implement facial recognition as a primary method for identity verification, with the option to incorporate further biometric technologies such as fingerprints. Institutions are also instructed to develop and execute risk management policies and procedures, as well as to formulate a response plan for incidents involving data breaches or fraud.
According to Sudan News Agency, the pamphlet details general controls to ensure compliance with due diligence and the “Know Your Customer – KYC” principle. Banks are also required to deploy immediate fraud detection mechanisms and con
tinuously monitor financial transaction patterns. The document stipulates that banks must provide customers with clear instructions on safeguarding their banking information and recognizing fraud attempts. Furthermore, banks are obligated to submit monthly reports to the CBoS General Administration of Payment Systems, detailing the performance of service provision, security measures, and levels of compliance.
CBoS has instructed banks to commence preparations immediately to complete the technical systems necessary for offering the service of opening bank accounts remotely.