1. Monitor Your Account and Bank Statements
You need to regularly review your bank account activity so that any suspicious transactions can be reported immediately. With the availability of mobile wallets, a review once a day wouldn’t be too much work.
2. Jealously Guard Your PIN
The Personal Identification Number (PIN) is like the lock for your account. Being careless with it is basically putting your entire account in jeopardy. Don’t give your PIN to anyone who asks, and don’t keep it written down anywhere in your purse or wallet — just memorize it.
3. Careful Which ATMs You Use
Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are now more distributed majorly in urban areas. There is a high chance that you will find an ATM at a gas station, supermarket, among other places. ATMs located in very busy areas like airports with limited security have a high chance of having tracking and skimming devices installed by thieves. Fraudsters can then have access to information such as your PIN. As such, remember to always use the ATM at a bank or a place with good security. Related Article: Debit card vs. Credit card: What are the differences?
4. Use Secure Connections
Things like free Wi-Fi can be very enticing but might cost you heavily. You will never know how secure a public hotspot is. You should, therefore, stay away from public Wi-Fi when making online purchases using your debit card. Save those tasks for when you have a secure mobile connection, or on your personal/home network. Also, make sure you are shopping on a secure website. Look for the lock icon in your browser and pay attention to any security warnings that may pop up.
5. Report Any Suspicious Activity Immediately
In case you lose your debit card(s), make it a point to report to your bank immediately. The bank will put in place security measures to make sure your lost card is not used. When you see any unauthorized transactions on your account details, report that too; so that the bank can trace the transaction. It is also wise to report this to the Police so that criminal investigations can commence. Keep a copy of the case details in case they might be needed some time in the future. Be careful. Don’t let a simple transaction be a way for fraudsters to steal your hard earned cash. Take extra precautions when handling your bank account details and be deliberate about the decisions you make that involve your debit card or PIN.
