Sabric speak at last Domestic Watch meeting

Penny Steyn, coordinator and speaker of the Bedfordview Domestic Watch, welcomed Daya Moodley from the South African Banking Risk Information Centre (Sabric) for the last meeting of the year on October 31.

Moodley, a forensic specialist from Sabric, gave members of Domestic Watch fraud awareness tips when using the ATM.

Moodley said members need to safeguard themselves while drawing money from ATM.

“You pin number belongs to you and nobody else,” said Moodley.

He said if a family member has access to your pin, and “draws money from your account without your consent”, the bank will not reimburse the money.

“If you go to the bank, always ask as many questions as possible relating to your account. Don’t be afraid, they are offering you a service,” said Moodley.

Moodley emphasised the need to be vigilant about criminals at the ATM.

He said criminals work in groups at the ATM, especially when they try to retrieve your pin number.

“When you see somebody attempting to help you at the bank, push them away from you,” said Moodley.

Moodley alerted the members of a number of fraud activities at the bank such as ‘shoulder surfing’. “This is when criminals attempt to retrieve your pin number without your knowledge.”

Also read: WATCH: Bedfordview Domestic Watch’s Penny talks openly about crime

He also talked about ‘ATM card theft’ where a criminal distracts the customer’s attention by trying offer help. They use a device known as a handheld ‘skimming device’ to swipe the card and retrieve the customer’s details.

“Why would you need somebody to help you at the ATM? Do not let anyone distract you,” said Moodley.

Moodley also advised members to be on the lookout for a ‘money bomb scam’. The criminals drop rolled up papers covered with a R50 note, resembling a roll of money.

He said as you bend down to pick up the money, the criminals will retrieve the bank card and the pin number.

Moodley said the ATM’s are safe. “It is human beings who are ignorant.”

He also warned members to protect or secure their pin numbers on entering the ATM, as criminals also place cameras at the ATM.

Moodley advised the members to ensure they are completely in control of the ATM space when they withdraw money.

“You should always block the pin pad with your keys, wallet or your hand when entering your pin number,” said Moodley.

Also read: Bedfordview Domestic Watch spreads awareness

He said that if you notice criminal activity you should always report it as soon as possible.

He added that if there seems to be a problem with the bank card, report it to the bank.

“Look out for festive season scams, if it is too good to be true, it is not true,” said Moodley.

Moodley ended his talk by telling the members not to pay for anything until they have received it.