How to transact safely online and avoid card fraud over the holidays
Online shopping is safe and convenient, however, it’s equally as important to ensure that you are not caught off guard by online fraudsters.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/49/2016/12/computer2_19918.jpg)
AS we enter the holiday season, it is important to empower yourself to not fall victim to Card Not Present (CNP) fraud, which occurs when neither the card nor the cardholder is present while a fraudulent transaction is being conducted.
Earlier this year, SABRIC reported that in 2019 Card Not Present (CNP) fraud amounted to 62 per cent of gross fraud losses on South African issued credit cards, and with a debit card amounted to 46.9 per cent.
Trish Ramdhani, head of fraud at FNB Card said: “Online shopping continues to be a growing trend in South Africa.
More and more consumers regularly buy everything from basic household necessities to clothing, gifts and gadgets at the click of a button.
It is safe and convenient, however, to continuously get the best experience when shopping online, it’s equally as important to ensure that you are not caught off guard by online fraudsters.”
Ramdhani shares some tips for consumers to consider when shopping online with their credit or debit cards.
- Ensure that you are buying from reputable websites and Apps.
- Enter the provider’s website by typing in the web browsers yourself instead of accessing it via a search engine as it might lead you to a spoofed site.
- Never access the website from a link you receive in an e-mail or SMS.
- Make sure that you are not on a spoof site by clicking on the security icon on your browser tool bar, to see a Padlock and that the URL begins with https rather than http.
ALSO READ: SASSA extends temporary disability and child care grants
- Never save your personal and banking details on any merchant website. If the option presents itself, always remember to click ‘No’.
- Always remember to log off immediately when you have finished shopping.
- Always ensure you download the latest anti-virus software on your PC and mobile device where possible.
- Never provide your credit or debit card details unless you’ve initiated the transaction.
- Should you suspect any fraudulent activity, immediately report the incident through the banking App or contact the number at the back of your card.
Remember, banks will never ask you to share your One Time Pin (OTP) over email, SMS or phone, so keep it safe.
“Following these quick safety precautions and keeping up to date with the measures that your bank is using to prevent online fraud will give you peace of mind when shopping online with your credit or debit card,” concluded Ramdhani.
Do you want to receive news alerts via Telegram? Send us a message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 060 532 5535.
You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have signed up for our news alerts you need to save the Berea Mail Telegram number as a contact to your phone, otherwise you will not receive our alerts
Here’s where you can download Telegram on Android or Apple