WARNING: Scammers on the prowl this festive

Standard Bank is urging consumers to be vigilant against fraudsters who are intensifying their tactics during the festive season.

The bank’s fraud risk management team has identified several methods used to deceive ATM users, particularly vulnerable individuals like the elderly or those unfamiliar with other languages.

Fraudsters are using altered ATM language settings, activating the cardless function to confuse customers, and jamming card slots or pin pads to steal cards or money.

ALSO READ: Students urged to be vigilant of bogus institutions and scammers

Shoulder surfing, where someone watches you enter your PIN, is also on the rise.

Vishing, a scam where fraudsters use phone calls or voice messages to trick people into sharing personal information, is targeting vulnerable consumers.

Fraudsters pose as bank officials, tax agents, or investment firms, tricking victims into taking actions that jeopardise their bank account security.

To protect yourself from ATM fraud, Standard Bank advises:
• Trust your instincts: Cancel transactions if the ATM seems faulty or suspicious.
• Choose safe locations: Use ATMs in well-lit, busy areas.
• Be cautious of strangers: Do not accept help from strangers at ATMs.
• Protect your pin: Cover your Pin when entering it.
• Keep your card secure: Store your PIN separately and never leave your card unattended.
• Limit cash exposure: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Stay alert: Never share your card details, OTP or PIN over the phone or text.
Headline: Watch out for scammers