The next list of tips in my Safety and Security series is related to Credit Card Fraud.
These tips were also part of the security update document sent out by my company that I thought should be shared with everybody. We are all affected by crime in one way or another, and any extra awareness can help.
Keep Your Credit Card Details Safe
Silly question, but why would you want to keep your credit card safe? How’s this for an example:
A colleague of mine had the FNB notifications (“In Contact”) enabled so he was notified of a purchase on his credit card that he wasn’t aware of. And, it was for something called “Adam’s Patches”.
He had a tough time explaining THAT one to his wife. 😀
Pointers for Credit Card Security
- Treat credit and debit cards as cash.
- Do not divulge your PIN to anyone, not even bank staff.
- Never leave a card unattended.
- If your card is lost or stolen, immediately call the bank to stop the card and get a reference number.
- Note the date and time of your call, and the name of the person who took the call to prove that you stopped the card.
- Preferably give your card to the teller directly and not to attendants or waiters, ensure that the transaction is completed in full view. Most restaurants now have mobile credit card machines, ask the waiter to bring one to your table.
- Do not give your credit card number over the telephone.
- Keep copies of all sales vouchers and ATM receipts. Check bank statements carefully.
- Query unauthorized transactions with your bank as soon as you detect them.
- Do not provide any personal information when using your credit card.
- Have your card easily available when approaching an ATM.
- Check ATM for anything suspicious – card must enter slot easily, do not force as ATM may be tampered with.
- Check for hidden cameras above ATM keyboard.
- Be aware of people loitering around ATMs.
- Do not insert your card until prompted to do so by ATM.
- Never key in your PIN until prompted to do so by ATM.
- Never use an ATM with a blank screen.
- Memorize your PIN. Do not write on your card or give to anyone.
- Do not accept help from strangers at an ATM.
- Keep your ATM card transaction limits as low as possible.
- Do not count cash at an ATM or in public.
- Make sure your card and cash are safely in your wallet, handbag or pocket before leaving ATM.
- Take your ATM receipt with you.
- Keep your card and PIN safe.
- Do not reply to e-mails requesting credit card or banking details. Contact your bank immediately.
Don’t forget about keeping your credit card safe while shopping online as well. Make sure you’re completing your purchase or entering your details on the correct site.
For example, you don’t want to enter your details on paypel.com! ALWAYS ensure you’re on the website you MEAN to be on…
Please let me know if you found this article useful, or if you’d add/change anything.