With the December holidays upon us, it is almost mandatory to spend money as most holidaymakers shop for Christmas and other ceremonies.
While the criminal activities take a toll in most towns during this month, from pickpocketing, and armed robberies to scammers coming out to play, scammers tend to take chances and use the festive frenzy for their diabolical actions, hence it is always advised to be mindful of your surroundings.
Before we dive into ways we can avoid being swindled, it’s best we know the common types of ATM scams: card swapping, card skimming and card trapping.
Here are the tips to combat the scammers from conning people:
- Capitec Bank advises that we should always be mindful of our surroundings when using an ATM, and never accept help from strangers.
- The above bank further advises that we make sure we cover the pin pad when entering our PIN, even if we are alone.
- “Never accept help from strangers; go into the bank if you need help,” noted Capitec Bank.
- Don’t use ATMs where the card slot, keypad or screen has visibly been tampered with, cites the bank.
- Always make sure you leave with your card.
Standard Bank has also drafted the ATM safety tips, which are as follows:
- “Use in-branch ATMs whenever you can, and choose ATMs in areas that you are familiar with.”
- “Have your card ready in your hand when you get to the ATM.”
- “Follow the ATM instructions carefully, entering the required information only when prompted.”
- “Don’t let anyone distract you or leave your card unattended in the card slot.”
- “Check your card before you leave the ATM to make sure it’s yours.”
Also see: A survival guide for couples this festive season
