As South Africans prepare to travel to holiday destinations around the country, Absa’s card division has advised its customers to be even more vigilant around card and ATM fraud ahead of Easter.
Geoff Lee, head of Absa Card division said, “Customers who travel, stay in hotels, eat in restaurants, and draw cash from unfamiliar ATMs during Easter, increase their risk of being victims of card and ATM-related crime. However, it is possible to prevent this from happening by taking a few simple precautions.
Read: A masterclass in deception – how I fell victim to ATM fraud
“Customers should always remember that without the correct PIN code, an ATM card is useless and there are various things they can do, such as stopping their card, which can limit any financial damage.”
Lee warned customers drawing money from ATMs to be particularly wary of well-dressed, friendly strangers offering assistance at the ATMs.
“The perpetrators of ATM crime often use sleight-of-hand techniques to obtain your card. They may try to convince you that your card has been swallowed by the ATM and abuse your trust to allow him or an accomplice to observe you entering your PIN.”
Here are some tips to ensure your Easter holiday is not spoilt by fraud or theft:
- When leaving the ATM check that you have received the correct card back
- Never allow strangers, including apparent bank staff members or security guards, to assist you
- Immediately report a card that has been retained by the ATM for any reason
- If you think there may be any chance that your PIN and/or card was compromised, report this to your bank immediately so that a ‘hold’ may be placed on your card and account. Obtain a reference number for the complaint
- Never give your PIN or internet banking password to anyone, including family or a bank employee
Do not enter your PIN unless the ATM screen prompts you to do so - If you feel that your PIN or password might have been compromised, change it immediately
- When entering your PIN at an ATM, stand close to the ATM and shield the keypad with your body to prevent other people from seeing it
- Never give out your personal information or banking details to strangers over the phone
- Ensure that your daily ATM withdrawal limits are in accordance with your need and appetite for risk
- Ensure that you are aware of the numerous ways in which your ATM card can be used to withdraw or transfer money. Cancel those facilities you do not need or require”If people follow these steps they will have very little to worry about and can enjoy their Easter holidays with peace of mind,” Lee concluded.
