Card Security: Everything you need to know.

Credit and debit card fraud is on the rise, with new strategies being developed to access card information and use it illegally. As everything becomes cashless, more people are resorting to using cards to make payments. This is why everyone should be aware of card fraud and understand how to avoid being a victim. Debit and credit card security should be top of mind for everyone and below are some key points to keep in mind.

1. Keep your account and card number private

When you are out in public and using your card, do not let anyone touch or take your card out of your sight. Only provide your account or card number over the phone if you initiated the contact and are speaking with verified Bank personnel. Be wary of messages that urge you to provide personal information or click a questionable link through email, text, phone, or social media. Consider paperless statements and online payments to keep sensitive information out of the mail system or lying around where they can be seen and copied. It is also a good idea to shred documents containing sensitive personal information before throwing them away.

2. Always update your information

If you relocate or change your email and phone number, notify the Bank. Your statements and other information will be sent to your new details and will not end up in the wrong hands. Sign up for alerts on all your cards and double-check that you have supplied your most up-to-date phone number and email address so that we can reach you swiftly in the case of fraud or suspicious behaviour.

3. Secure your devices and networks

You may be susceptible if you enable your browser to save your card details. To avoid this, consider disabling the autofill function in each browser you use. If you use an app for your cards such as the Steward Bank VISA App, make your smartphone difficult to access by requiring a password and, if feasible, a fingerprint.

4. Protect yourself online

If you use your Steward Bank VISA Globetrotter Card for online payments and purchases, there are four steps you can take to protect yourself:

• Know your merchant. When shopping online, look for sites with "HTTPS" in their web addresses. The "s" stands for "secured" and the lock icon shows that the site is secure. Ensure the URL includes the correct company name, rather than a close-but-incorrect version; and, even on a secure site, share your information only if you know how it will be used.
• Never keep your credit card information on an internet buying site.
• Be wary of public Wi-Fi. Do not use public Wi-Fi to shop or do financial activities, such as checking your accounts. Because it is a public network, anybody may readily access your information.

5. Check account history often

Reviewing recent account activity is critical to card safety—and it is simple to accomplish. You may do it using the Bank's Square App, Online Banking, or by requesting through Virtual Banking. Set up email or SMS alerts to notify you of all transactions.

6. Report lost cards and suspicious activity immediately

Contact us at 0808 8888 immediately if you lose your card or suspect fraudulent activity. You can also disable your card through the Square App Card Management Centre, and then apply for a new card.

Remember: Time is of the essence. At Steward Bank, we are on a mission to create a digital and efficient financial services ecosystem. However, as the end user, we need your participation to make the products and services you use completely secure.

Noticed suspicious activity on your card? Let us know immediately by calling 0808 8888.