Top 5 Tips to Avoid Debit/ATM Card Frauds

Debit Card has made our lives easier because of its countless benefits. Whether you are using the card to pay phone bills online, shop, or withdraw cash from ATMs, Debit Card needs to be used safely and securely. So, here are some tips you should follow to use a Debit Card safely.

1. Protect the PIN

Debit Cards require a 4-digit PIN used to authorise transactions at stores and ATMs. Bank officials will never ask you to share this PIN with anyone, including them . In fact, even when you apply for a Debit Card the PIN has to be generated by you. However, despite banks regularly educating customers about PIN safety, it remains one of the common reasons for Debit Card fraud. Here are some important tips to keep your PIN safe.

• Hide Your PIN

Avoid using ATMs that are overcrowded. If you must, use your other hand to hide the keypad to stop people from looking at your PIN. The same goes for Point of Sale (PoS) machines at outlets.

• Don't Write Down the PIN

Memorise your PIN, and don't write it down on your Debit Card or anywhere else.

• Generate a Secure PIN

The PIN shouldn't be easy to guess, like your date of birth or the first/last four digits of your mobile phone number.

2. Use Your Cards at ATMs Safely

One of the common places where Debit Card fraud originates is an ATM. This is why it is essential to use your Debit Card at ATMs safely.

• Don't Exit the ATM before Seeing the Welcome Screen Again

You could forget to complete the transaction cycle in a rush to get out of the ATM. This could expose your account details to the next person using the ATM. Thus, ensure you see the Welcome screen again before exiting. If you're in a hurry, press the 'Cancel' button before leaving.

• Don't Forget Your ATM Card at ATMs

Ever since banks upgraded to chip-based Debit Cards, ATMs started to hold and lock the card until the transaction was complete. While this ensures transaction security, it could also result in you forgetting the card at the ATM after completing the transaction. So, make sure you remember to take your card before exiting. If you've forgotten, notify the bank immediately and get your card blocked.

3. Prevent Your Card from Being Cloned

One of the most common Debit Card frauds is cloning the card and using it for malicious transactions. It's imperative to use your card securely and not let it get cloned.

• Use Contactless Debit Cards Safely

Contactless Debit Cards are a two-way sword. While they make it easy and possibly more secure for you to transact at PoS without entering a PIN each time, they can also be used for unauthorised transactions. This is why these Debit Cards limit how much you can spend without needing to put in your PIN. For instance, AU Debit Cards from AU Small Finance Bank allow you to make contactless payments up to INR 5,000.

• Look Out for Skimming Machines

Criminals use skimming machines at ATMs or merchant outlets to steal your Debit Card details. However, they're easy to notice as they make the machine look bulkier. Avoid using your card if you find something suspicious or use a contactless Debit Card for such transactions.

4. Preventing Online Fraud

One of the common safety tips while using Debit Card is to use your card safely for online transactions. Make sure you use your card only at trusted shopping websites and apps. Moreover, don't visit a site by clicking on a link sent to you by email unless you trust the sender.

5. Avoid Public Wireless Access for Financial Transactions

You may often have to use your Debit Card to make payments or transact online while on the go. If you're in such a situation, avoid using Public Wi-Fi networks as they are prone to be hacked. Instead, use a trusted Wi-Fi or your mobile network for such transactions.

Read More: How to Apply for a Debit Card

• While these tips can help you enhance the security of your Debit Card, the best thing you can do is to ensure your card comes with insurance coverage like a card liability cover or purchase protection.
• This ensures you're compensated even if a fraudulent transaction occurs on your card. So, apply for your AU Debit Card and enjoy while ensuring your peace of mind with the right protection.

AU Small Finance Bank offers Debit Card Insurance benefits such as Personal Accident Cover, Air Accident Cover, Card Liability Cover and Purchase Protection Cover on various AU Debit Cards.

If you have a bank account with us, you can apply for an AU Debit Card by visiting our website, AU Video Banking or AU 0101 App/ NetBanking.

Read More: Everything You Wanted to Know About Debit Cards