With high levels of ATM fraud, it’s important to practice caution at all times by being extra vigilant to avoid falling victim to these crimes.
Lee-Anne van Zyl, CEO of FNB Points of Presence said, “Consistently arming consumers with information is one of several strategies we use to fight ATM fraud. If customers know what to do they are less likely to fall prey to scammers.”
Here are some helpful safety tips to beat fraud when using an ATM.
Tips for protecting your ATM PIN
- Keep your ATM PIN confidential. If it lands up in the wrong hands, you risk being scammed
- Never write down your PIN number. Always memorise it
- Your PIN should never be easy to guess, so avoid using your date of birth as your PIN number
- When transacting, cover the keypad with your hand – scammers sometimes place cameras at ATMs to record your PIN as you enter it
- Stand as close as possible to the ATM and never let anyone stand close to you when transacting
- Do not enter your PIN on a screen that is unfamiliar to you. Carefully read the instruction on the ATM screen before entering your PIN.
Tips for protecting your cash
- Once cash has been withdrawn, put it out of sight immediately. Avoid handling cash in public view
- Secure your wallet or handbag before leaving the ATM
- Set a realistic daily limit to protect yourself, should your details be compromised
- Check your statements and balances regularly and report any suspicious transactions to the bank immediately
- Use your debit card instead of cash for purchases
- Be wary of strangers that may call you back to the ATM to complete a transaction. They often ask for assistance or offer to assist you – this is often how skimming occurs
- Once you have completed your transaction, leave the ATM as soon as possible and avoid conversation with strangers.
Remember to:
- Never ask for help from strangers, even the security guard – if you are unsure, visit a nearby branch for assistance
- Never force your card into the ATM – if the card is not easily accepted by the device, it may have been tampered with by criminals
- Never use an ATM if it looks faulty – this may mean the device has been tampered with. Discontinue the transaction and find another ATM
- Never respond to strangers who disturb you during a transaction, even if they seem respectable and well-spoken
- Pay attention to your surroundings and be alert – look out for loiterers.
“Knowing what to look out for and what not to do could potentially save customers their hard-earned money. The festive season is around the corner. This is a busy time, but it’s not the best moment to let the guard down,” concluded Van Zyl.
Details: Dumezulu Shiburi 087 328 0990; 082 333 4659; dumi.shiburi@fnb.co.za
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