Using debit cards has become a way of life for many of us. Whether you are withdrawing cash from an ATM, entering your debit card PIN to pay for your groceries at a till or simply tapping your card to pay for a ticket at the movies, your debit card is a simple, convenient and secure way to access your money.
SBS monitors activity on your debit card to detect unusual behavior, and if we spot something uncharacteristic, we will attempt to contact you to verify the transactions. This is an attempt to enhance the security of your debit card.
And while SBS is working to protect you from fraud, there are simple steps that you can take to protect yourself.
Debit Card Security
How to help ensure the security of your card
- Sign your card on the signature panel immediately when you receive it
- Create a secure PIN and do not keep it near your card or on your mobile phone
- Check your transactions regularly and report anything unusual immediately
- If you print statements from the internet, keep them safe and shred them when you have finished using them
- Never give your personal details to someone who phones you claiming to be from SBS or any other entity
- Don't give out your details in response to unsolicited email
- Be wary of anyone who asks for common security details like your mother's maiden name, date of birth, or information about your work.
- Never give your PIN to anyone, not even if they claim to be from SBS
- Don't let yourself get distracted when using ATMs or point of sale terminals - somebody may be trying to get to know your PIN Don’t use public wireless access for financial transactions
SMS notification safety tips
- Never allow anyone to access your mobile phone, your account information may get compromised
- Have access PIN for your cell phone
- Don’t delete - keep your messages safe and secure
- Keep your debit card safe
- Alert SBS as soon as you notice you are not receiving your transaction SMS notifications
- Distinguish between a real and fake SMS
PIN & Card details safety
- Ensure that consultants don’t know your PIN at the initial PIN issuance stages
- Avoid easy to guess PIN number
- Memorise your PIN, never write it down on your card, purse, wallet, desk or save it on your phone
- Hide your PIN every time you are performing transactions at the ATM and retail point of sale. Never let your card out of sight
- Change PIN at least every three months. You can do this at the ATM
- Use your judgement to assess e-mails, verify authenticity or consult before sharing your details
- Don’t share your CVV or card number
