How to keep your account safe and stay ahead of scams
These days, you need to be extra careful because digital scams come in many shapes and disguises. Fraudsters are always trying to find new and inventive ways to steal from unsuspecting people. In the United States alone, username and password breaches quadrupled from 2020 to 2021.
At Discovery Bank, we have the most advanced security in place to keep your account safe. Plus, we continue to monitor fraud trends and keep you informed of the latest scams so that we help you take the right steps to protect yourself. We're adding a dedicated Fraud alerts channel to the Discovery Bank app under Notifications to give you tips to keep your account safe and notify you about the latest security trends.
Fraudsters ask you to download apps and take control of your smart devices
There's a growing trend in South Africa in which fraudsters call unsuspecting bank clients asking them to download and install apps that give them control of their phones or laptops.
These fraudsters create situations where they convince you to give them your personal information so that they can access your banking profile, steal your money and transfer it to cryptocurrency accounts.
Here are some tips to help you avoid this type of scam:
- Don't download or install apps that give others access to your phone or laptop.
- Know the difference between Discovery Bank Live Assist* (co-browsing assistance with a Discovery Banker) and a scam - we'll never ask you to open an app other than your Discovery Bank app, and we'll never take control of your smart device or any apps.
- We always send you notifications when money leaves your account. If you receive a notification and you didn't make a payment, contact us immediately.
- Don't allow anyone to register cryptocurrency accounts on your behalf.
- Don't accept the help of someone claiming they'll help you with payments, registration or products unless you specifically contacted the bank asking for help.
- Never click on links or attachments you weren't expecting, especially ones requesting payments. Never do something you wouldn't normally be asked to do over email or phone.
*Not applicable to clients with the previous Discovery Card that is now administered by Discovery Bank.
Don't share sensitive info
As a general security measure, Discovery emails will never ask you for sensitive information (passwords or account details). Be alert and never click on links in suspicious emails or links to log in to the Discovery website or access Discovery Bank's online banking portal.
Always type in discovery.co.za and check that your web browser starts with https:// when you access the site before you log in or use online banking.
Report suspicious activity
If you suspect any unauthorised transactions in your account, please contact us immediately on 011 324 4444.
Protecting your money and keeping your personal information safe and secure is as important to us as it is to you.
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