Credit Card Skimming Fraud ~~Financial Matters of Life ~~
Credit Card Skimming
Arm yourself against card skimming scams.
There is no doubt that the use of a credit card it is safer to go with large amounts of cash. However, criminals can be ingenious and some have developed high-tech methods to steal victims.
Skimming is a type of credit card fraud that involves copying information from a credit card customer which is then used for illegal transactions. Skimming most commonly occurs during a legitimate transaction in a store or restaurant or at an ATM. Criminals use an electronic device to read the card and access to information stored in the magnetic stripe. The slider can be a standalone device or a device connected a card reader or ATM.
Skimming was not always easy to detect, but if the credit card users are vigilant can help reduce cases of this scam.
How to prevent skimming
Watch for any unusual activity. Unfortunately, even well-established stores are sometimes dishonest employees who work for them. You can make it harder for criminals by following some basic steps.
1. Do not let your credit card out of sight
You may have noticed that the credit card payment in restaurants now takes place at the table, hand using a credit card machine. This is a good way to ensure that your card is only swiped once, using a legitimate device. If a waiter or dependent must have the card from you, insist on accompanying them to the card machine.
2. Do not run your card through more than one device
Do not run your card through more than one card of the machine, and make sure that the employee handling the payment is not.
3. Look out for suspicious equipment
Criminals sometimes place a skimming device in the card slot of an ATM. Do not use a ATM if you notice anything unusual or suspicious. Try to be alert, even during peak 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 for the credit card transactions, make sure that nobody is looking to enter your code and try to protect the keyboard. Protect your PIN, even when you are alone: skimmers have been known to use hidden cameras to observe people entering their PIN at ATMs or machines with card.
Card security is in everyone's interest
Do not be afraid of "making a scandal." Being attentive to your credit card is simply common sense. Honesty employees understand why you insist on example, accompanying them during a transaction, and store owners will welcome the surveillance.
Check your statements
However careful you are, grazing is not always possible to collect. For this reason, it is essential to examine your credit card transaction statements form regular. If there are unexplained charges or you notice something suspicious, report this to your bank immediately.
By staying alert and keep track of your account, and the presentation suspicious activity reports can help reduce fraud and credit card skimming.
Note: (Although all South African banks have begun introducing Chip and PIN cards credit – which is much more secure than a magnetic stripe – not all merchants have Chip and PIN enabled POS develops, which requires banks to issue cards with Chip and PIN, both as a magnetic strip. This means that you can still fall prey to card skimming fraud.)
About the Author
Plastiq allows customers to compare credit cards and apply for credit cards online in South Africa. A stolen credit card must be reported immediately, as should any suspicious activity on your credit card account.
credit card skimmer scam
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