How to protect yourself against payment fraud
Payment fraud often starts with a harmless message. So take your time and examine messages critically.
Be sceptical; don’t act under pressure.
Be wary if someone asks you for money – whether by phone, text message, instant messaging or email – especially if it sounds urgent. Caution is also necessary when tempting offers and financial investments are proposed. Fraudsters often rely on emotions, time pressure and a sense of authority.
If you are suspicious, act immediately.
If you suspect fraud or if you find you are a fraud victim, contact your bank or card issuer immediately. Block access to your e-banking or TWINT account, or to your debit or credit cards.
Treat phone calls with caution.
Be on your guard if, for example, you receive a call from the police, the public prosecutor’s office, a bank or TWINT. Stay calm and, if in doubt, terminate the call. Ring back using the official telephone number. Don’t let anyone persuade you to grant the caller access to your computer via remote support.
Be careful with emails and WhatsApp.
Messages containing links, QR codes or a neutral form of address are warning signs of fraud. Criminals use these means to lure you onto fake websites in order to get hold of your card or online banking details. Check the sender’s email address and be wary if someone asks you for money or promises you profits or the love of your life.
Protect your data.
Never disclose passwords, PINs, CVC/CVV numbers, TANs, security codes, confirmation codes or activation codes. Use a password for on-line banking that you do not use for any other account.
Check every payment.
Before authorising any payment, check that the payee, amount and payment reference are correct. Only confirm payments that you have initiated yourself. Important: When receiving money you must never provide confirmation or disclose a code.
Keep a close eye on your account.
Check your account and card transactions regularly and keep your customer details up to date. Enable notifications of all account and card transactions so that you can spot any unauthorised transactions straight away.
Protect your devices and keep them up to date.
Keep operating systems, programmes and apps up to date. Always install security updates. Only download apps from official app stores and, where possible, use antivirus software. Protect access to your smartphone by a code, fingerprint or facial recognition.
Useful links
Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts
Information on secure online banking and mobile payments.
eBanking – but secure!
