In as much as we look forward to the prospects of buying gifts for your family and friends this coming festive season, we need to be alert at all times not to fall victim to potential fraudsters who want to swindle people their hard earned money.
It is common for fraudsters to always lurk around us in order to have a share of the money we earn. So, whenever using your card (debit or credit card), be on guard by being aware of your surroundings. Your card credentials can be easily compromised and subsequently used by fraudsters, who can easily take all the money in your account or use up the entire credit available on your credit card.
Therefore, be always vigilant when purchasing groceries at a store, having breakfast or lunch at a restaurant, booking accommodation in a lodge or hotel, or purchasing air tickets as this may require to make payment using your debit card or credit card at a Point of Sale machine or withdrawing cash at an ATM. These are a few of the places where you could fall victim to fraud. The following are tips to keep in mind when using your cards:
- Never keep the ATM card or credit card together with your PIN.
- Never allow anyone else to enter your PIN for you, or you entering it while someone is watching, even when being assisted.
- Block view of the keypad (the part where you punch in your PIN) when entering the PIN at an ATM or Point of Sale terminal.
- When paying at a Point of Sale terminal, beware of suspicious cashiers who make movements which could be aimed at distracting your sight of the ATM card or credit card.
- Familiarise yourself with ATM functions and only enter the information the ATM requires of you and not getting deceived by fraudsters that ATM functions have changed. Fraudsters could swap your card, after obtaining your PIN.
- If unsure about ATM functions or unfamiliar with how to use an ATM, ask bank staff for assistance.
- Never hand your ATM or credit card to be swiped on a Point of Sale terminal for a transaction away from you. Rather always have your card in sight.
- Observe your surroundings before using an ATM, especially at Malls and fuel stations.
- Avoid using secluded (isolated) or unguarded ATMs if possible, unless someone is accompanying you.
- If someone or something seems suspicious, leave the area immediately.
- Physically inspect the card slot of the ATM to ensure it has not been tampered with and there is nothing attached to it.
- Store your cash away before leaving the ATM.
- Review your account periodically via statements to see whether any unknown transactions have occurred on your account.
- When purchasing goods online, use secure websites (credible websites).
- Get your card stopped in the event of suspected fraud or when lost by calling 081 9286 or (061) 294 2136.
- Obtain a replacement card at any Standard Bank branch to avoid inconveniences.