1. Keep an eye on your card!
Never allow a third party to get their hands on your card. If you need someone else to help do your banking, you should consider getting that person a bank card of their own. When you are paying for a meal in a restaurant, for example, make sure you never let the card out of your sight. Regularly check to make sure you still have the card in your possession.
2. Protect your bank card!
Always keep your card in a safe place and don’t let it get bent, dirty or scratched or it may no longer work properly.
3. Be careful using your credit card on the internet!
You need to be careful with your credit card data on the internet to make sure you’re not the victim of phishing or identity theft through fake websites, e-mails or text messages.
4. Keep your PIN secret!
You should never write down your PIN and keep it in the same place as your card. You should also never divulge your PIN to people in positions of trust, like bank employees or the police. You can find tips on how to remember your PIN here (German only).
5. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN!
When entering your PIN at an ATM or at the checkout, make sure others can’t see the numbers. You can use your other hand or wallet to cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
6. Keep your distance!
Keeping your distance from the person withdrawing money from an ATM or paying for something in a shop is important! People should respect your personal space and you should request that they keep their distance, if necessary. If you still feel someone is encroaching on your personal space, then you should cancel the transaction and use a different device.
7. Don’t be distracted!
As soon as you use your bank card or enter your PIN, it is important not to let yourself be distracted, get involved in a discussion or let others ‘help you out’. This is how scammers get your data or steal your money. If something doesn’t seem right, then don’t be afraid to simply cancel the transaction.
