Keep Your Kids Safe
SILLY SEASON SAFETY: “SCAMS-THEY ARE EVERYWHERE”
As we move into the season of spending, giving and holidaying there is another group of people also preparing to make the most of this ‘season’: the criminals. Scammers, thieves and fraudsters are already putting into action their plans to take your hard earned money. While some crimes are unavoidable there are a few that CAN be avoided by being aware of the latest trends.
Forewarned is forearmed.
- CARD FRAUD:
ANY sort of card fraud increases in December. ATM’S, malls, online and even your own home, becoming hunting grounds for those who will be trying to access your card information and clear out your accounts. Be aware of the following:
- An unexpected delivery by courier made to your home where the “courier” asks you to pay an admin/processing fee of R50-00 via credit card. Once your card is swiped on ‘his’ machine, it has been cloned and your account will be emptied/or your card will be maxed. In this scam (prevalent in Gauteng and the Western Cape) there is never any ‘message card’ accompanying the delivery. The courier will tell you that the card will follow. Remember: NO courier company will ask you to pay extra at delivery, UNLESS you have agreed to it when ordering online. A GIFT delivery will always be paid in full by the sender.
- Waiters in restaurants telling you a machine is not working and that they have to fetch another one; the 2nd one they bring could be a card skimming machine. If you have ANY doubts in a restaurant or shop, rather go to the main pay point and pay there. NEVER let your card out of your sight in restaurants, shops, petrol stations etc.
- Online shopping with cards is only safe on reputable sites. These sites will provide the necessary security information and what systems are in place for recording transactions. Do NOT be fooled by false links that look similar to legitimate ones – these links (once clicked) can plant malware that is able to extract passwords and more. If you are NOT up to date with online shopping ask someone to assist you. Phishing scams will also increase, and too many people will click on the links provided in these phishing emails.
- ATM’s remain the number one venue for card crimes. Skimming and card swapping are still rampant and the only prevention that really works is common sense. If your card does not slot into the ATM easily, do not force it in. If there are people hanging around an ATM doing nothing but loafing, do NOT use the ATM. Use ATM’s in malls that have security personnel nearby, and where the entire ATM is in full sight (Not ATM’S down alleys/passages)
- PERSONAL BELONGINGS AND CASH CARRYING:
Try to travel light when out and about this December. Huge handbags filled with your valuables will be attractive to criminals. Always grip your bag tightly when walking and be aware of people walking too close to you.
Do not wear jewellery when out and about, as December also sees criminals reaching out to pull chains from necks in busy malls and other actions. Make sure you carry MINIMAL cash on your person (bag) as any theft thereof will not be covered by insurance.
Also make sure any valuable items are specified and covered with your current policy.
December is the season of TAKING as well as receiving, so make sure you are covered for any unfortunate events. Contact Dialdirect for the insurance cover you need to enjoy a risk free holiday.
Dialdirect is an authorised financial services provider (FSP licence number: 15259).