Try to always keep your cards in sight when using them, and never share your PIN with anyone.
Criminals have been known to steal EFTPOS or credit cards and then phone the card owner pretending to be from your bank or the police to try to get the PIN. They often say they need your PIN for security reasons. These types of scams are often targeted at the elderly.
Remember your bank will NEVER ask for your PIN, and you should never give your PIN to anyone, for any reason.
Skimming is when an electronic device is used to record your EFTPOS, Visa Debit or credit card information when your card's swiped through it. The criminal will also try to capture your PIN, usually by standing nearby and watching you enter it, or by using a hidden camera.
The recorded information is used to create a duplicate card with your bank details, giving the criminal access to the same accounts you access from your card.
Skimming usually happens in the following situations:
While not strictly illegal, there are a number of unethical websites being used to dupe cardholders.
These sites offer cheap products and services that only need a small upfront fee or 'just the cost of postage'. These are offset by 'ongoing' or 'additional' costs that are hidden in the small print, that will be automatically deducted from your card.
It can be very difficult for you to cancel these, so always make sure you read the terms and conditions of any website before making a purchase.