Be able to spot scams in order to avoid them by taking the necessary safety precautions. And luckily there are plenty of pointers on what you should do to prevent falling victim to scams.
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Never respond to emails or cellphone messages appearing to be from your bank
Even if they request your personal details remember that no bank will ever ask you to confirm or update your account details by email.
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Never provide your online access information
Things like internet ID, password or PIN to anyone and never write them down or share them. Change your PIN and passwords frequently.
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Be internet banking savvy
Don’t save your Internet banking password on your desktop. Or leave your computer unattended after you’ve entered your Internet banking password. Always log off or sign off at the end of a session. And avoid doing Internet banking in public areas such as Internet cafés, or on any computer that can be accessed by people you don’t know.
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Regularly check your bank statements to spot any irregular transactions.
Also put sensible transaction limits on your accounts.
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Only shop online with reputable websites
Check that they’re secure by looking to see if there’s an https:// at the front of the web address. Additionally if there’s a padlock in the address bar then the website is protected and verified.
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Bank better and safer
Always ensure your card is swiped in front of you and not taken away to complete a transaction. Make sure you receive bank notifications when a transaction takes place, either by SMS or email. If a fraudulent transaction occurs you’ll be informed immediately.
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If you’re called or messaged
Carefully read any email or SMS sent to you see if it contains any grammar or spelling mistakes. Fraudsters often don’t take note of their use of language and a scam will be full of errors. Also if you’re cold-called and you become suspicious of the caller, don’t reveal any personal or banking details to them.
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Finallyifit sounds too good to be true it probably is
Therefore offers of unrealistic prizes such as a very expensive vehicle or hundreds of overseas air tickets. In most cases, companies won’t offer such valuable prizes. Also don’t send money to an account upfront. No legitimate financial services provider will ask for money upfront in order to confirm a loan.