Card fraud includes the use of stolen cards to make direct purchases.
Card fraud includes the use of stolen cards to make direct purchases and the use of compromised card details to buy items over the phone or via the Internet, in ‘Card Not Present’ or CNP fraud.
Protecting your card details is important
- Do not write your PIN number down or disclose it to other people.
- Dispose of statements or slips which contain your card details securely by shredding with a cross cut (confetti) shredder.
- Do not let others see your PIN number, cover your hand when entering it in any machine.
- Check your statements regularly, including low value transactions.
- Notify your card company immediately if you suspect fraud.
- Use a credit card in preference to a debit card, especially if you are not sure about the location at which you are using the card.
- Debit cards are linked to your bank account and fraud can result in you becoming overdrawn and not able to withdraw cash.
- Credit card companies are very good at spotting unusual transaction patterns.
Cash Machines - ATM (Automated Teller Machine)
Be aware that cash machines (ATM’s) may have been modified in order to:
- Copy or ‘Skim’ card details and PIN numbers using hidden cameras
- Trap the card, or cash in the machine.
After the cardholder leaves, the criminal removes the device, camera, along with the card, or cash if they have been using that type of trap.
- Be mindful of people behind you at cash machines:
- They may be ‘Shoulder surfing’ for your PIN Number.
- Attempt to steal the card using distraction techniques or pickpocketing.
- Talk you into re-entering the PIN while the criminal watches.
If you suspect a device has been placed on an ATM do not attempt to move it. The suspects may be nearby and use violence if their device is likely to be interfered with. Call the police or contact the bank, if it is open, immediately.
If you are a victim of Credit or Debit card Fraud
- Please see our advice on Identity Fraud.
- Special procedures apply when reporting card fraud.