Credit card cyber fraud: Essential steps to safeguard your finance

Shield against credit card fraud with robust security measures like antivirus software and secure online practices. Stay vigilant to thwart cybercriminals and safeguard sensitive information effectively.
Credit card cyber fraud: Essential steps to safeguard your finance
Credit card fraud involves cybercriminals obtaining sensitive credit card information such as the card number, PIN, CVV, and other necessary details to make unauthorised purchases or transfers.
While credit card fraud detection systems can aid in identifying fraudulent transactions to some extent, fraudsters often manage to inflict substantial financial harm on victims before being apprehended.
Therefore, it's crucial to familiarise oneself with various types of credit card fraud and take proactive measures to avoid becoming a victim. Being vigilant and informed can significantly reduce the risk of falling prey to such fraudulent activities.
Despite the low or zero liabilities for credit card users, fraud or identity theft can still cause significant inconvenience for both customers and banks. While the bank's zero-liability policy protects credit card users from financial losses if they report the fraud within 60 days, they must endure the process of detecting the theft, notifying the bank, obtaining a replacement card, paying any associated fees, and updating all automatic payment accounts.
The rise of awareness among credit card users is essential for early detection and prevention of fraud, helping banks address potential issues proactively.

Best tips to protect from credit card cyber fraud


  • Monitor account activity: Regularly review your credit card statements and transaction history for any unauthorised charges or suspicious activity.

  • Enable alerts: Set up transaction alerts through your bank or credit card issuer to receive notifications of any transactions made with your card.

  • Use strong and unique passwords: Secure your online banking and shopping accounts with strong passwords that include a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using information that is easily guessed, such as birth dates and names.

  • Enable 2-factor authentication: Utilise two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible to add an extra layer of security to your online accounts.

  • Be cautious of phishing scams: Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unsolicited emails, messages, or websites that ask for your credit card information.

  • Shop only on secure websites: Ensure that the websites you use for online shopping are secure. To ensure secure browsing, ensure that the URL contains HTTPS and a padlock symbol in the address bar.

  • Use virtual credit card numbers: Some banks offer virtual credit card numbers for online transactions. These are temporary numbers that cannot be linked to your actual credit card account.

  • Keep your devices secure: Install antivirus software, keep your operating system and apps updated, and avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks when making online transactions.

  • Shred personal documents: Shred any documents containing sensitive information such as credit card statements or receipts before disposing of them.

  • Report lost or stolen cards immediately: Contact your bank or credit card issuer immediately if your card is lost or stolen to prevent unauthorised use.

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