ATM Fraud through eWallet transactions is a growing concern as fraudsters use this simple but harmful way to take money from eWallet accounts. Though the perception is that those who are not tech-savvy are more vulnerable to these types of fraud, this has proved not to be the case. Regardless of whether you are tech-savvy or not, it’s important to learn how to better protect yourself and those closest to you.
One example of this type of ATM fraud is when the fraudster claims an ATM isn’t working. Here is the scenario. When you arrive at the ATM the fraudster will claim that it doesn’t work but then asks you to try it.
The two of you stand in front of the ATM trying to withdraw cash from your eWallet to see if the ATM is infact not working. The first thing they do is press the ‘cardless withdrawal’ button for you instead of the ‘eWallet’ button. Unfortunately, in this instance, this is more likely to affect those who may be unfamiliar with eWallet so they may not think there is anything wrong with the fraudster pressing ‘cardless withdrawal’.
However, for even the more versed in eWallet can have a moment of distraction that takes their attention away from the ATM screen, allowing the fraudster to press a different button. As you input your cellphone number and the eWallet pin, they are close by watching and recording your information. The pin number will not synchronise with the ‘cardless withdrawal’ option because it was meant for eWallet withdrawals. The ATM will print out a receipt with an error code, confirming what the fraudster claimed. Once you leave to look for another ATM, they will remain to withdraw from your eWallet by inputting your cell number and Pin and by the time you try again at another ATM, your money is already gone.
Another scenario is when a fraudster gets your eWallet information directly from your phone, while standing in the queue waiting to use the ATM. The fraudster endears themselves to your sympathies by convincing you to borrow them your phone to attend to an urgent, personal emergency. While using your cellphone, they go through your messages and forward your eWallet pin to their partner in crime, waiting at another ATM somewhere else. Their partner will then withdraw money from your eWallet as you wait in line thinking your funds are safe.
The unfortunate thing about both scenarios is that the transactions cannot be reversed even when reported to a branch.
To avoid these scams, customer should do the following: • Avoid inputting their transaction details into the ATM while someone is watching them. Your information should always be kept private. • Don’t allow strangers or unknown individuals to offer help at the ATM. If the ATM isn’t working and you aren’t able to complete your transaction, visit the nearest FNB Branch or call the 24 hour Contact Centre at 395 9881 or the toll free line at 0800 302 302 to report any faults. • Avoid borrowing an unknown person your cellphone for whatever reason. Your phone can contain a lot of sensitive information, so make sure to keep it private and prevent strangers from using it to harm or inconvenience you.
Finally, if you notice suspicious individual or you are feeling uncomfortable, you are better off going to a different ATM.
