How to stay scam-free this festive season

How to stay scam-free this festive season

Remember, scammers don't go on holiday...

Woman withdrawing money from a cash machine ATM
Woman withdrawing money from a cash machine ATM/iStock/Rawpixel

As we sail into the holiday season, we must remember that criminals are on high alert. They wait for us to let our guards down and swoop to scam us. 

They constantly wait for innocent people to be negligent and will try to distract you while driving, parking your car, using your online banking app, or using the ATM. The possibilities are endless. 

Capitec Bank has sent a notice to all their clients informing them to keep their bank cards and PINs safe. It is common for criminals to target ATMs during the festive season. Many people use the ATM when socialising, and their minds may not be alert. 

Therefore, they have provided some helpful tips on how to stay scam-free during the holiday season. 

  • Always be mindful of your surroundings when you are using an ATM.
  • Don't let anyone see your PIN or distract you when using an ATM or paying with your card. 
  • Never accept help from a stranger; if you are unsure about something, go inside the bank. 
  • Avoid using ATMs that look damaged. 
  • Cancel your bank card immediately if you think your information was stolen. 

Courtesy of the Capitec Banking App. 

In addition to the above tips, they have the Slam the Scams series. Here they have used the words 'Slam' and 'Scams' as acronyms for their clients to remember key safety tips. 

  • Safeguard your information and your phone
  • Look before you click on links
  • Always verify if it's really us on a call
  • Mind your surroundings at the ATM

  • Spot investment scams
  • Check Marketplace items before you pay
  • Avoid paying upfront fees for jobs 
  • Make sure it's really a giveaway
  • Shop safely on secure sites

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Image Courtesy of iStock

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