Card skimming warning: Why you should never let your card out of sight

Card skimming scams are not limited to dodgy ATMs; they can also occur at seemingly safe places like restaurants, petrol stations, and retail stores. This is when a card reader device downloads the details of a bank card, allowing scammers to create fraudulent copies of the card, potentially leading to significant financial losses.

The Banking Association of South Africa advises customers to keep their cards in sight at all times during transactions. Most restaurants and shops use portable card machines, and there should typically be no reason for a customer's card to leave their presence. However, if a different machine is needed, it is recommended that customers accompany the person using it.

This precaution is crucial because customers may not be aware if their card is being processed through a legitimate terminal or if it has been passed through another device without their knowledge. To protect themselves, consumers should check that their card has not been replaced with another card after making a payment, and monitor their bank statements for any unusual transactions.

If an unfamiliar transaction is detected or if there is a belief that card details may have been compromised, it is essential to contact the bank immediately and follow the bank's instructions for securing the account and card. While ATMs remain a significant concern for card fraud, it is important to remember that skimming can also happen during everyday purchases when criminals have an opportunity to access a card outside the customer's view.