City urges public to be more vigilant when withdraing money

Imogen Vollenhoven

11 January 2013

The City of Cape Town’s Metro Police Department has urged citizens to be vigilant when withdrawing money from ATM’s.

 It has been reported that there has been increased reports of ATM fraud throughout Cape Town over the festive season.

Metropolitan Police Chief Wayne Le Roux urges the public to heed the following to alleviate the risk of falling victim to ATM fraud

·        Position yourself so that others cannot see you entering your pin and always use your other hand, wallet or purse to shield your PIN entry.

·         Always keep your cards in a safe place and never with a record of your PIN.

·         Be aware of other people around you when you are using an ATM, and report any suspicious behaviour to police or your card issuer.

·        Keep an eye out for attachments or devices on card slots or keypads. If something doesn't look or feel quite right, please report it to your card issuer immediately.

·         Be sure to remember to take your card, cash and transaction receipt when you leave.

·        Be discreet. Avoid standing at the ATM to count or organise your money. Rather put it into your wallet, purse or handbag straight away.

·        Check your transactions against your bank statements.

·        Ensure that you provide your card issuer with up to date contact details so you can be notified quickly should suspicious transactions be detected.

Members of the public can report any incidents to the City’s Metro Police Call Centre on 021 596 1999.