During the holidays, it pays to be extra careful when swiping your card or drawing money at an ATM. Several tourists have fallen victim to ATM scams in town and security guards have been warned to be extra vigilant.
Here are a few simple tips to follow when using your bank card:
• Never let strangers approach you or stand close to you
• Do not accept help from strangers, rather go inside the bank for the transaction
• Do not use ATMs that are damaged or tampered with
• Always keep an eye on your card if you need to hand it over to complete a transaction
• Never write down your PIN or keep a slip with the numbers in your handbag or on your phone
• Do not give your PIN to anyone
• Hide your PIN when keying it in
• Only use ATM’s in well-lit areas
• If the ATM is not working as it should, cancel the transaction and use another one.
• If your card gets stuck immediately alert the security guard or bank official and notify the bank.
If you suspect that your card have been skimmed or swapped, immediately phone your bank using the emergency number displayed on the ATM.
Many retailers allow you to draw cash when paying for your purchases. Consider using this services, especially if you need to draw cash late at night.
