A football fans guide on what to look out for at the 2010 FIFA World Cup
As thousands of football fans from the UK prepare to go to South Africa for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the Identity Fraud Communications Awareness Group, which was formed by a number of public and private sector bodies to improve awareness of the threats of identify fraud and theft and encourage consumers and businesses to take preventative measures, is warning about the potential scams that could hit World Cup tourists.
“While news headlines have focused on the risk of violence for anyone heading to South Africa, we are urging consumers to be aware of the potential fraud scams which might give them a financial hangover when they get back,” says Neil Munroe, spokesman for the Identity Fraud Communications Awareness Group.
“Unfortunately, football fans will stand out from the crowd, making them an easy target for criminals. However, with a little extra vigilance we still believe people can enjoy the trip of a lifetime and avoid becoming victims of fraud.
“In particular, we are urging England fans to be just that bit more cautious when they are using credit cards. A little common sense goes a long way. And if it seems too good to be true, it often is.”
TIPS FOR ENGLAND FOOTBALL FANS ON FRAUDS ABROAD
With thanks to the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website
ATM fraud is common in South Africa and fraudsters are known to target tourists. Scams include:
1 – Someone offers to help you with an ATM transaction and even offers to try the number for you. They are probably fraudsters who will switch cards or clone it and use your PIN.
2 – People dressed in the bank’s colours will tell you to swipe your card with them, as the ATM isn’t working. They will clone your card and then ask you to try it on the machine or ask for your PIN.
3 – Small cameras at ATMs designed to record your PIN. There should be no loose wires, leaflet holders or loose fittings around the ATM.
4 – Your card gets stuck and a passer-by offers to try the PIN for you. They then offer to stand guard, while your report it to the bank. The fraudster takes the card and uses the PIN.
• Always protect your pin number, never write it down or give it to anyone
• Have the ATM card for your transaction ready and in your hand.
• Cover the keypad while entering the number
• Be wary of any offers of 'help' with ATM transactions, even if it appears to be coming from an official
• Make sure the card you get back from the ATM after your transaction is yours, and don't count cash openly after the transaction
• Only use ATMs in well-lit, high-traffic areas
• Call your bank right away if the machine retains the card
Identity theft is already a major risk in South Africa and officials expect this to increase during the World Cup. However, taking the right precautions can significantly reduce the chance of becoming a victim:
• Protect your personal information, especially passport, at all times
• Always remember to report the loss or theft of identification documents as soon as possible
• Do not give strangers personal information, including your contact details
• If you need to use an internet café to access social networks or online bank accounts ensure you protect your passwords
South Africa has a high incidence of credit card fraud*, so take good care of your bank cards - they may be in the scammers’ sights.
To provide extra protection from this form of fraud:
• Keep copies of card information
• Inform your bank of intended travel
• Use safes in hotels
• Always keep your credit card in sight when paying in restaurants or shops
• Notify your Bank immediately if your card is stolen or you lose it
*Foreign & Commonwealth Office
