Festive shoppers warned over bank-card use
Festive shoppers were today warned to step up security measures as it was revealed one in 20 people take no precautions using bank cards.
As the annual Christmas spending splurge gathers pace the Financial Regulator warned consumers to be extra vigilant on foot of the new findings.
It commissioned research that shows although most people are careful when keying in PIN codes for card transactions, some continue to put themselves at risk.
The survey, carried out by TNS mrbi last month, showed that 68% of people cover the screen or keypad when entering their PIN at an ATM or in a shop.
Some 66% key in the numbers quickly, 59% say they check an ATM has no unusual devices attached and 52% look over their shoulder to make sure no-one is watching as they input their PIN.
However, 5% of those polled said they took none of the precautions outlined.
The Financial Regulator’s consumer director Mary O’Dea said the findings were broadly positive but a renewed emphasis on security was needed over the busy Christmas-shopping period.
“People are taking notice of warnings and listening to advice about how to avoid scams,” she said.
“However, we would urge people to be particularly vigilant at this time of year when using ATMs or entering PINs in shops, restaurants or bars.
“It is a busy time of year for spending and criminals tend to use the opportunity of crowded shops to try to obtain PIN numbers and steal payment cards,” she added.
According to the survey one in 10 people write down their PIN to help them remember it.
“If your card and PIN were stolen and used together, you could be considered to have been negligent and could be liable for any money taken from your account,” warned Ms O’Dea.
“One in five people also said that someone other than themselves knew their PIN. Even if this person is your spouse or partner or a family member, it is never a good idea to disclose your PIN to anyone.
“If someone were to steal your card and obtain your PIN, the fact that you had already given your PIN to another person could be a factor when the theft of your card or use of your PIN is investigated.”
The research also revealed two in five people now use telephone or internet banking.
Only 3% of telephone banking customers would verify their personal details over the phone if told there had been a security breach on their account.
Just 4% of internet banking users said they would enter their internet banking numbers on their bank’s website in response to an email.
“Your bank would never ask you to reveal this sort of information by email or telephone,” cautioned Ms O’Dea.
