| Card
fraud could wipe you out
15 December 2004 - Sowetan
Some security tips on using
ATMs from the Ombudsman for Banking Services.
Never allow anyone to stand near you or assist you at the ATM.
Never key in your pin until the ATM prompts you to do so.
Criminals involved in ATM scams will usually be well dressed and seem
to be friendly - they are trying to make you trust them.
Don't use an ATM that doesn't easily accept your card on the first attempt.
Only use ATMs in safe, well-lit areas.
Immediately tell the bank when a card has been retained by the ATM for
any reason.
ATM criminals use sleight-of-hand to obtain your card. They might try
to convince you that your card is inside the ATM when in fact the criminal
has got it. They might ask you to let them watch you enter your pin.
Ensure that your daily ATM withdrawal limits are in accordance with your
needs.
Only allow your card to be put through a card-reader at a reputable merchant
or in a bank. Keep your card in sight at all times. Do not allow your
card to be swiped through a card-reader if you are not making a transaction
on your account.
Tips on debit and credit cards:
Always know where your credit
card is. Regard it as cash.
Ensure that you have signed your credit card.
Check your statement regularly. You have a limited time within which to
dispute fraudulent transactions. Inform the bank in writing if you change
your address (even temporarily).
Report the loss of a card to the bank immediately.
Do not count on your signature to protect you from fraud. Your signature
on the card can be forged. The signature on a fraudulent voucher can be
compared only with the signature on the card.
Your secret:
Memorise the secret PIN number
for your card.
Also write it down and hide the piece of paper where you can always find
it.
Always make sure that no one sees what keys you press when using the ATM
so that your PIN number remains a secret.
If your card is swallowed by an ATM tell your bank immediately.
When asking for your PIN number at a bank always take the name of the
bank employee who helps you.
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