Card fraud

Card fraud covers a range of unauthorised transactions which can involve misuse of your physical card or card details such as your card number, PIN, expiry date and CVV.

How scammers steal your card details

Email and text phishing

Scammers send fraudulent emails or text messages that appear to be from legitimate sources, to try and trick you into providing your card details. Learn more about phishing and how to protect yourself from suspicious emails and messages.

Card skimming at ATMS & point of sale terminals

Devices called skimmers are placed on ATMs or point-of-sale terminals to capture card information when the card is swiped.

Public Wi-Fi interception

Hackers can intercept data shared over unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, including card details.

Stolen or lost cards

Physical theft of wallets or cards is still a common method of illegally obtaining card details.

Data Breach

Card details can be stolen from an online store where card details were saved from previous purchases.

Malware

If your computer system is compromised by malware (malicious software), scammers can steal personal information including credit and debit card details.

Tips to spot & deal with card fraud

  1. 1
    Tahi

    Be suspicious of

    • Anyone asking for your PIN number or one-time codes. Your PIN number should never be shared with anyone this includes family members, the police and bank staff.
    • Emails and text messages asking you to click on a link and input your card details - even if these appear to come from a legitimate person or organisation.
    • Calls from companies that you didn't expect or initiate, and who ask for personal or card details to process a payment.
    • ATMs or EFTPOS terminals that look damaged or tampered with.
    • Retailers and service people who want to take your card out of sight. Go with staff to make payments and make sure they give your card back to you straight away.
  2. 2
    Rua

    Do your checks

    • Regularly check your bank statements for any transactions that you don’t recognise.
    • Check your bank contact details are up-to-date so we can let you know if we notice any suspicious card or account activity.
    • Read the terms and conditions of online retailers before making an online purchase. Check for any hidden charges.
    • Visually check ATMs or EFTPOS terminals for signs they may have been tampered with.
  3. 3
    Toru

    Act with confidence

    • Memorise your PIN number and don’t disclose it to anyone. Use online banking to change your PIN if you think someone knows your current PIN.
    • Never give your card details to someone over the phone unless you initiated the call and you know the company is reputable.
    • If you've noticed a suspicious transaction, misplaced or lost your card, turn on the temporary block using your mobile app or via internet banking. The block can be removed at any time.
    • If your EFTPOS, Visa Debit or credit card has been lost, stolen or someone has discovered your PIN, call us and we’ll cancel your card immediately. Alternatively, you can cancel it and order a replacement card using the mobile app.
    • If you're going travelling, let us know where you're going, for how long, and how we can contact you while you're away. Do this quickly and easily using the mobile app or internet banking.

Scammers change their tactics regularly

Visit latest scams to stay across current risks and tips to protect yourself.

Helpful resources

What to do if you've been scammed

Anyone can fall for a scam. If you suspect that you've been scammed, get in touch with us as soon as possible.

Take action

If you've been scammed, move quickly. See what steps to take to help reduce the impact.

I've been scammed

24/7 support

Fraud and scam support is available around the clock. Call 0800 113 355 or +64 4 473 1133 from overseas.

0800 113 355

Protect yourself

Simple actions can significantly improve your online and financial security.

What you can do