Bank card scams: what you need to know!

Credit card fraud is a form of fraud in which credit card details are used illegally to carry out fraudulent transactions. This scam can take place in a number of different ways. The card may be physically stolen, leaving the information in the hands of fraudsters, who then use it to purchase goods online. Bank details can also be revealed by making cash withdrawals at ATMs or by using the card to obtain benefits or free services. These scams can cause serious financial damage to victims. In this article, we tell you all you need to know about this scam and give you our advice on how to protect yourself from these fraudsters.

The different cases:

There are various ways in which bankcard scams can occur. It is important to be aware of the ways in which they can occur so that you can be vigilant in your actions.

• Theft of banking information. In this case, fraudsters can steal banking information by using data recording devices. Fraudsters gain access to this data by accessing sensitive databases or by intercepting communications between the consumer and the merchant.

• Online fraud. In this case, fraudsters use stolen bank details to make purchases.

• Phishing. In this technique, they send you text messages or e-mails pretending to be a trusted company, asking you to provide your bank details.

• ATMs (Automated Teller Machines). In this case, fraudsters install data recording devices on ATMs. When you insert the card, without realising it, they will have access to your bank details.

It is important to remain vigilant and never give your bank card details to untrustworthy third parties. If you think you have been a victim of fraud, contact your bank or card issuer immediately to report the problem and ask for help.

You must be extremely careful when using your bank card. Never give your bank details to people you don't know. If you have any doubts about the authenticity of a message sent to you, it's probably a scam, so trust yourself!

Curious to find out more about the different types of scams? Have a look at our articles on theDHL scam, thewedding gift scam or theMondial Relay scam.

Our advice:

There are several ways to protect yourself against this type of scam. Here is a non-exhaustive list of the most important tips to ensure that you are protected.

The first thing you need to look at is the websites you buy from online. Check that they are secure. You should see "Https" rather than "Http" on the URL, which means that the site has a security certificate.

You should also monitor your bank accounts and credit card statements very regularly so that you can detect any suspicious activity and react quickly.

Create secure credit cards for online purchases. Most banks offer this service. Credit cards are only available for a certain period of time and have a ceiling that you set. This type of card offers better protection against fraud.

Secure all your transactions with Obvy :

Obvy offers a payment method specially designed to secure transactions between private individuals. Whether you're buying or selling between private individuals on ad platforms such as Leboncoin or Vinted, Obvy acts as a trusted third party to help you avoid any scams.

In the event of a counterfeiting scam, you can quickly and easily return the product to the seller and get your money back. What's more, you'll have all the information you need about the seller in the event of legal action.