How to protect yourself from scammers this Black Friday

Q: Black Friday is an amazing opportunity to shop for things I need. Why do I need to be extra cautious?

A: Peak shopping times like Black Friday, Cyber Monday and the festive season bring about opportunities for criminals who are out to take advantage of you and defraud you of your hard-earned money. But don't worry, it's not all doom and gloom - with just a little preparation and knowing what to look out for, we can still enjoy the shopping experience.

Q: What's your number one tip for spotting a scam?

A: If something looks too good to be true, it probably is. So, be on the alert for deals and offers that over-promise. Staying vigilant when shopping is one of the most important things you can do to keep yourself safe.

Q: How must I respond to promotional emails?

A: First, don't click on unfamiliar email links. If you receive an email from an unknown source or one that looks suspicious, don't click on any of the email links. Instead, type in the site's name in your web browser and access it that way. And if you click on a link and get to a site that looks suspicious, never give your card details - for example, for small amounts that claim to be for clearing goods for parcels.

Second, do not open unfamiliar email attachments. Retailers don't usually attach their deals to emails, so don't open email attachments that offer special deals. Delete them instead or visit the retailer's website to access their deals.

Q: How can I stay secure when shopping online?

A: The most important rule is to use a trusted internet connection. Don't use unknown or public Wi-Fi to access online shopping sites. Criminals can use unsecured internet networks to access your personal information.

Then, make sure the online shopping site is secure. The site's address must have https:// in front. If it doesn't, leave the site immediately.

It might be a challenge, but use a different password for each shopping website or app you register on. That way, if one site isn't secure, your details on other sites aren't at risk. Use strong and secure passwords that have a combination of numbers, lowercase and uppercase letters, and symbols.

If you suspect that you've responded to a phishing email, change your banking login details immediately and let your bank know. (Phishing is a type of scam where fraudsters send you an email asking for your personal details.)

Q: What must I do if I receive a link that takes me to the Discovery website and asks me to log in?

A: Never use a link to access Discovery Bank's online banking portal or log in to the Discovery website. Links could take you to fraudulent websites. Instead, type in www.discovery.co.za in your web browser and access the site from there.

Q: How can I keep my personal details secure?

A: Never give out sensitive information over the phone or email. Don't share your PIN, one-time password (OTP), credit card details (card number, CVV numbers, name on card and expiry dates) with anyone. Remember, Discovery Bank and other banks will never ask you for any of this information over phone or email.

When in doubt, please contact our fraud line on 011 324 4444.

Always be aware of the people around you. Don't talk about personal information such as your PIN, OTP or card details in public. Be aware of your surroundings when you're withdrawing money from an ATM or entering your PIN at tills. Finally, don't accept help from strangers. If you need help withdrawing money from the ATM or when paying at the till, contact Discovery Bank on 0800 07 96 97.

Q: How can I keep track of my transactions and spending?

A: Our banking app has some great features to help you keep track of and limit your spending.

You can set up transaction notifications on all your Discovery Bank accounts so you receive a notification every time there's a purchase on your account.

You can also set spend alerts with the Vitality Money Financial Analyser. With these alerts, you receive a message when you're spending more than you planned. It's actually an amazing tool - right now, it's telling me that I've gone over my coffee budget for the month. So, I know I need to be more careful.

And remember, Discovery Bank lets you set and change your spending limits for merchants, online purchases and ATM withdrawals. That way, if your card details are stolen, there's a limit to what can be taken from your account.

Another important rule is to keep your mobile connection on so Discovery Bank can send you your one-time password (OTP) for online shopping.

Do not authorise SIM swap requests, unless you have specifically asked for a SIM swap from your cellular provider. Contact us immediately if you become aware of unauthorised SIM swaps.

Q: Where can I get more information about banking security?

A: For more information on fraud-related scams and how to protect yourself, please visit the Discovery website. And if you suspect fraudulent transactions and activities on your Discovery Bank accounts, contact us on 011 324 4444 straight away.

Stay safe and happy shopping!