Iranian depositors report unexplained losses as trust in banks wavers

Reports of missing funds from Iranian bank accounts are intensifying concerns over trust in the country’s financial system, as customers describe unexplained losses and inconsistent responses from lenders.

An investigation by Alhurra published on Friday, June 5, and cited by Iran International, documented multiple cases in which account holders said money had disappeared from accounts at major institutions, including Bank Melli and Bank Sepah.

According to the report, some customers were told the losses resulted from hacking incidents or cyberattacks attributed to hostile actors, while others said they received no clear explanation from their banks regarding the missing funds.

Iran’s Central Bank has previously acknowledged that certain banking institutions were targeted in both cyber and physical attacks, state media reported. However, authorities have not confirmed any systemic theft of deposits or widespread losses affecting account holders.

The report also cited claims by activists and opposition figures alleging that authorities have broadened the use of legal and security mechanisms to freeze or confiscate assets belonging to individuals accused of cooperating with foreign adversaries. These claims could not be independently verified.

By Tamilla Hasanova