Dear Member
Welcome to International Fraud Awareness Week: Day One focusing on Fake Websites.
Criminals can use fake advertising and websites to lure you into providing your debit card information. Once you have either, entered your debit card details to authenticate a purchase or provided a One Time Passcode (OTP) to complete the payment, the fraudster / fake website now has stolen your card details and can spend your hard-earned money.
Here are some tips for recognising when a website isn’t all that it may seem and how you can keep your debit card details safe online.
Spotting Fake online retailers
Look for a ‘padlock’ symbol in the address bar or browser.
This normally indicates the site is encrypted so your activity can’t be intercepted.
This should be combined with other checks as fraudsters can copy or buy these padlocks, so it isn’t a guarantee the website is safe.
Look closely at websites before you use your Debit Card
Are there any grammar or typo errors?
Have they a registered business address?
Have they a good returns policy?
Are there positive Google reviews or other online forums?
If anything looks unusual, DO NOT make a purchase from them!
Review the social media & contact information:
Are there genuine followings and legitimate posts?
Do they provide a physical phone number and email address?
Try a quick call to test the customer service to see if the company exists by speaking with a representative, if possible, send an email, automated response or bounce back? Be aware, if you receive an automated response or bounce back be on alert this may be a fraudulent website?
KEY ADVICE: ENSURE you use trusted websites when shopping or transacting online. If the price is too good to be true, trust your instincts, it’s likely to be a scam!
If you believe you have used an untrustworthy or fake website, or if you have any concerns regarding your Current Account or Debit Card activity, contact Credit Union Card Services on +353(1)6933333.