- 19/06/2023

Bancontact-Visa Debit card: outsmarting the fraudsters

3 min

Is your Bancontact-Visa Debit card safe from fraud? With numerous payment possibilities – in-store and online, using QR codes and payment apps like Apple Pay, Google Pay, Fitbit Pay or Garmin Pay – the risk of fraud is increasing. Here are some examples and, more importantly, some precautions to take.

Be wary of offers that are too good to be true

50% off that new PC you’ve been looking at? A deal not to be missed! A tax refund? Great news! You click on the link and enter your details, including your bank card number and CVV code. On the other side of the screen, the fraudster is smiling. They've got exactly what they wanted: all your details, which they can use or sell.

• Frauds are becoming increasingly sophisticated and are targeting people of all ages.
• Even the most experienced people can fall victim, often because they think they're immune. It's better to stay calm and level-headed at all times.
• When you're entering your details, check that the website is reliable and secure.

Don't share your details

Someone from your bank calls you to report suspicious transactions on your current account. To enable them to help you and confirm it's really you on the phone, they ask for your bank card number and CVV code. They seem polite and trustworthy, so you give them the information: you’ve been tricked by a fraudster.

• Your bank will NEVER ask you for this information.
• Whether it's by phone, text message, letter or social media, at home, on the street or elsewhere, never share your bank card details or any other confidential information.
• Fraudsters are creative and are constantly coming up with new plausible scenarios.

Beware of hidden subscriptions

An iPhone for €1... But have you noticed that this special offer requires you to take out a subscription for one or more years?

And to take advantage of another great offer that’s appeared on your screen, you've been given the chance to become a "VIP Member". Why not, you may ask? The reason is that the subscription will result in an automatic monthly payment.

• Use your common sense: would you accept this offer if you were in a store?
• Don't click too quickly and read the terms and conditions carefully, even if they're several pages long or in small print. It may be time-consuming, but it's worth it.
• Be aware of the commitment you’re making when you click "Accept": a payment could be made from your account. And unsubscribing is not always easy.

Don't make life easy for fraudsters

Smile for the camera: click, click, click... The fraudster’s very grateful: they've just taken a photo of your bank card, front and back! It only takes a few moments if your card is visible in your hand or on the counter when you’re paying in a store or restaurant. With your card number and CVV code (on the back of your card) – which is as valuable as your PIN – they can now make purchases on certain websites. And if you post a photo of your card on Whatsapp, Facebook or another social media platform, it's a gift for them.

• Your bank card is highly coveted by for some people. Keep it out of sight.
• If you become distracted and let your guard down, fraudsters can take advantage: be aware of this and stay cautious.
• Similarly, when entering your PIN into a payment terminal, cover the keypad with your free hand.

Did you know you can adjust your payment card settings to your needs?

Have you been a victim of fraud or do you have doubts about a payment you've just made?

What should you do if the event of fraud?