Credit Card Skimming
Arm yourself against card skimming scams.
There is no doubt that using a credit card is safer than walking around with large amounts of cash. However, criminals can be resourceful and some have developed high-tech methods to steal from victims.
Skimming is a type of credit card fraud that involves copying a customers credit card information which is then used for illegal transactions. Skimming most commonly happens during a legitimate transaction at a shop or restaurant or at an ATM. Criminals use an electronic device to read the card and access the information stored in the magnetic strip. The skimmer can either be a stand-alone device, or a device attached to a card reader or ATM.
Skimming is not always easy to detect, but if credit card users are vigilant they can help reduce instances of this scam.
How to prevent skimming
Look out for unusual activity. Unfortunately, even well-established stores sometimes have dishonest employees working for them. You can make it harder for criminals by following some basic steps.
1. Dont let your credit card out of your sight
You might have noticed that credit card payment at restaurants now takes place right at the table, using a handheld credit card machine. This is a good way to make sure that your card is only swiped once, using a legitimate device. If a waiter or shop assistant needs to take the card from you, insist on accompanying them to the card machine.
2. Dont swipe your card through more than one device
Dont swipe your card through more than one card machine, and make sure the employee handling your payment doesnt either.
3. Look out for suspicious equipment
Criminals sometimes put a skimming device on the card slot of an ATM. Dont use an ATM if you notice anything unusual or suspicious. Try to be alert even during busy times and be sure to immediately report anything suspicious to your bank.
4. Keep your Personal Identification Number (PIN) secret
If you use a PIN during credit card transactions, ensure no one is watching you enter your code and try to shield the keypad. Guard your PIN even when you are alone: skimmers have been known to use hidden cameras to observe people entering their PIN when using ATMs or card machines.
Card security is in everyones interest
Dont be afraid of making a fuss. Being vigilant about your credit card is just common sense. Honest employees will understand why you insist, for example, on accompanying them during a transaction, and shop owners will welcome your vigilance.
Check your statements
However careful you are, skimming is not always possible to pick up. That is why it is essential to examine your credit card transaction statements regularly. If there are any unexplained charges or you notice anything suspicious, report this to your bank immediately.
By staying alert and keeping track of your account, and by reporting suspicious activity, you can help reduce fraud and credit card skimming.
Note: (Even though all South African banks have started introducing Chip and PIN credit cards which is far safer than a magstripe not all merchants have Chip and PIN enabled point of sale devises, making it compulsory for banks to issue cards with both Chip and PIN as well as a magstripe. This means you can still fall prey to card skimming fraud.)
There is no doubt that using a credit card is safer than walking around with large amounts of cash. However, criminals can be resourceful and some have developed high-tech methods to steal from victims.
Skimming is a type of credit card fraud that involves copying a customers credit card information which is then used for illegal transactions. Skimming most commonly happens during a legitimate transaction at a shop or restaurant or at an ATM. Criminals use an electronic device to read the card and access the information stored in the magnetic strip. The skimmer can either be a stand-alone device, or a device attached to a card reader or ATM.
Skimming is not always easy to detect, but if credit card users are vigilant they can help reduce instances of this scam.
How to prevent skimming
Look out for unusual activity. Unfortunately, even well-established stores sometimes have dishonest employees working for them. You can make it harder for criminals by following some basic steps.
1. Dont let your credit card out of your sight
You might have noticed that credit card payment at restaurants now takes place right at the table, using a handheld credit card machine. This is a good way to make sure that your card is only swiped once, using a legitimate device. If a waiter or shop assistant needs to take the card from you, insist on accompanying them to the card machine.
2. Dont swipe your card through more than one device
Dont swipe your card through more than one card machine, and make sure the employee handling your payment doesnt either.
3. Look out for suspicious equipment
Criminals sometimes put a skimming device on the card slot of an ATM. Dont use an ATM if you notice anything unusual or suspicious. Try to be alert even during busy times and be sure to immediately report anything suspicious to your bank.
4. Keep your Personal Identification Number (PIN) secret
If you use a PIN during credit card transactions, ensure no one is watching you enter your code and try to shield the keypad. Guard your PIN even when you are alone: skimmers have been known to use hidden cameras to observe people entering their PIN when using ATMs or card machines.
Card security is in everyones interest
Dont be afraid of making a fuss. Being vigilant about your credit card is just common sense. Honest employees will understand why you insist, for example, on accompanying them during a transaction, and shop owners will welcome your vigilance.
Check your statements
However careful you are, skimming is not always possible to pick up. That is why it is essential to examine your credit card transaction statements regularly. If there are any unexplained charges or you notice anything suspicious, report this to your bank immediately.
By staying alert and keeping track of your account, and by reporting suspicious activity, you can help reduce fraud and credit card skimming.
Note: (Even though all South African banks have started introducing Chip and PIN credit cards which is far safer than a magstripe not all merchants have Chip and PIN enabled point of sale devises, making it compulsory for banks to issue cards with both Chip and PIN as well as a magstripe. This means you can still fall prey to card skimming fraud.)
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