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Understanding card fraud How to prevent debit and credit card fraud

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Protect yourself against card fraud

General card fraud prevention tips

  • Don't let anyone else use your credit card.
  • Always take your receipt.
  • Keep your receipts and tear them up, or preferably shred them, before disposing of them.
  • Only shop from well-known websites that display a secure padlock logo, and have both a landline phone number and a real address (not a PO Box).
  • Don't give out your debit or credit card Pin. Avoid obvious Pins such as your birth year.
  • Keep your credit cards and cheque book safe.
  • Keep a note of contact details to use if your debit or credit card is lost or stolen. Carry them separately from your cards.
  • For more information on preventing card fraud, visit the Card Watch website operated by the credit card industry body Apacs.

Card-not-present fraud

The MasterCard SecureCode and Verified by Visa schemes are part of a security initiative by the credit card companies which is backed by the main banks. Thousands of retailers have also signed up to the scheme. Cardholders first need to register a private password with their card company for use when shopping online.

When you go to make a transaction at one of the registered online retailers you'll be asked for this additional password along with your debit or credit card number details. The transaction won't go through unless you are able to provide the password.

Phishing

Never reply to emails or use links in emails, even if they look like they’re from your bank.

If you are emailed or phoned by your bank, use its normal contact numbers to confirm whether the message is genuine.

It is a good idea to use a spam filter on your PC to block unsolicited emails.

For more details, read the .

Pharming

The only way to beat pharming attacks is to install, and regularly update, virus and firewall software.

When you log into your online account, check that the web address is correct before entering your details.

Always log off properly from sites and web browsers, especially when using a shared PC.

Don’t do your online banking from an internet café or over a public wireless internet ‘hot spot’ as your details could be intercepted.

For more details, read the .

Skimming

Check the ATM for unusual protuberances.

Be aware of others around you. If someone is behaving suspiciously or makes you feel uncomfortable, choose a different machine.

Be alert. If someone is crowding or watching you, cancel the transaction and go to another machine.

Stand close to the cash machine. Always shield the keypad with your spare hand and your body to avoid anyone seeing you enter your Pin.

Insist that your debit or credit card is not taken away for swiping in shops, restaurants and petrol stations.

Check bank and credit card statements regularly for any rogue transactions.

Don’t write down Pins or divulge them to anyone.

Intercepting mail

Cancel any old cards you don't use and close any accounts you aren't using.

Ask your bank not to send you unwanted credit card cheques.

For more information on card fraud prevention, visit the Card Watch website operated by the credit card industry body Apacs.