Scammers are using new techniques to abuse your trust. Presenting themselves as bank employees, police officers or even staff from official services such as Card Stop, they try to trap you by playing on your sense of urgency.
A well-oiled scam
The scam often starts with a phone call claiming that fraud has been detected on your bank account.
In order to ‘protect your assets’, the fraudsters aim to get hold of your bank card, make you transfer your money to a supposedly secure account, or obtain your PIN or Digipass codes.
Recognise the warning signs
Here are some typical signs of a fraud attempt:
- Unexpected contact: An ‘employee’ calls you out of the blue to tell you about alleged fraud.
- Excessive urgency: They insist that you act immediately — a classic technique to prevent you from thinking.
- Use of personal data: They sometimes know your name, phone number or date of birth to gain your trust.
- Disguised theft: They ask for your bank cards under the pretext of security.
- Request for codes: They ask for your PIN, your digipass response code or any other confidential information.
- Remote manipulation: They may ask you to install software, share your screen or transfer money to a supposedly ‘secure’ account.
How can you protect yourself?
- Never give your bank cards to anyone.
- Never give out your codes. Whether by phone, email or in person, this information is strictly personal.
- Do not trust the number displayed. Fraudsters can imitate your bank's number or use the name of a real employee.
- If in doubt, cut the conversation short. Block the contact immediately and inform your bank.
- Warn your loved ones. Share these tips with those around you, especially older people, who are often the main targets.
Have you been the victim of a scam?
- If you have lost money or have been the victim of extortion, we advise you to make a statement to the police. You can report it to the local police in your place of residence.
- Contact your bank and/or Card Stop on 078 170 170 if you have passed on any bank details, if money disappears from your bank account or if you have transferred money to a fraudster. This way, any fraudulent transactions can be blocked.
