Protect yourself against tap-to-pay scam
Card-skimming theft is on the rise, protect yourself. Image: Pexels

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Protect yourself from card-skimming theft in South Africa

Card-skimming theft in South Africa is on the rise, here is how you can protect yourself and those you care about from falling victim.

By Ray Leathern
07-03-24 15:23
in Business and Finance
Protect yourself against tap-to-pay scam
Card-skimming theft is on the rise, protect yourself. Image: Pexels

Card-skimming theft in South Africa is on the increase, and it’s your responsibility to guard against it. This is the message from Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation spokesperson (also known as the Hawks) Captain Dineo Lucy Sekgotodi.

Card-skimming theft in South Africa is back in the spotlight following reports of a 32-year-old petrol-pump attendant in Mpumalanga being arrested this week. Scheduled to appear in Middelburg Specialised Commercial Crime Court, he was taken into custody at the Ultra City N4 filling station in Middelburg on Monday (4 March 2024).

CARD-SKIMMING THEFT IN SOUTH AFRICA

card-skimming theft in South Africa
How to guard against card skimming in South Africa. Image: File

According to IOL, banks became suspicious that a card-skimming device was being used at the filling station. With an estimated potential loss of R400 000, the matter was escalated to the Hawks, who conducted a search and seizure operation, arresting a suspect in possession of the card-skimming device.

HOW TO PROTECT AGAINST CARD SKIMMING

card-skimming theft in South Africa
Where possible, try to tap or use cashless means rather than inserting your debit/credit card. Image: File

Card skimmers steal your personal details via tokenisation within your debit/credit card. Therefore, this can only happen if your card is inserted into a machine. Firstly, try to use tap-to-pay or cardless payments via your smartphone or e-wallet, such features provide the best security against card-skimming in South Africa.

If you must insert your card, look out for strange-looking or tampered card machines. Investigate the card device to detect something placed over it nefariously. Likewise, beware of any distractions at the moment of inserting your card machine. Furthermore, increase fraud protection at your bank, so you will be alerted immediately of any untoward purchases.

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