THE SA Banking Risk Information Centre (Sabric) has warned that during the festive period fraudsters take advantage of the fact that consumers receive bonuses, spend more money and are generally more relaxed because they are in holiday mode.
This time of year typically sees an increase in the use of online banking and card transactions and Sabric has urged bank clients to take note of the latest crime trends so that they do not become victims.
Security tips on how to avoid being card-scammed at the ATM
• If you think the ATM is fault, cancel the transaction immediately, report the fault to your bank and transact at another ATM.
• Avoid ATMs that are dimly lit or surrounded by loiterers, and never allow your children to draw money using your card, since they’re the most vulnerable to perpetrators.
• Be cautious of strangers offering to help as they could be trying to distract you in order to get your card or PIN.
• Be alert to your surroundings. Do not use the ATM if there are loiterers or suspicious people in the vicinity.
Also take note that fraudsters are often well dressed, well-spoken and respectable looking individuals.
• If you are disturbed or interfered with whilst transacting at the ATM, your card may be skimmed by being removed and replaced back into the ATM without your knowledge.
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Cancel the transaction immediately and report the incident using your Bank’s Stop Card toll free number which is displayed on all ATMs, as well as on the back of your bank card.
• Never force your card into the slot as it might have been tampered with.
• Do not insert your card if the screen layout is not familiar to you and it looks like the machine has been tampered with.
• Don’t use ATMs where the card slot, keypad or screen has been tampered with – it could be an attempt to get hold of your card.
• Some fraudsters wait until you’ve drawn your cash to take advantage – Be wary of people loitering around the ATM and ensure that you are not followed.
• Set a daily withdrawal limit that suits your needs (the default amount is set at R1000.00), to protect yourself in the event that your card and PIN are compromised
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