This type of fraud occurs when a fraudster uses your personal card details to make purchases without the card being present. This may be online, over the phone or by mail order.

Your details may have been compromised electronically, or fraudsters may attempt to persuade you to disclose them via a phishing email or telephone scam.

This type of fraud occurs when a fake card is created using compromised card details. This card is then used to make ATM withdrawals or shop purchases where Chip & PIN is not used. Often these fraudulent transactions take place overseas.

Your details may have been compromised by a skimming device at an ATM or at a shop.

This is where your genuine card is used to make purchases. In some cases, fraudsters will use techniques such as shoulder surfing to observe your PIN.

Fraudsters can attempt to steal cards or card details by using the following methods: 

Shoulder surfing is the term used when the fraudster observes you entering your PIN at an ATM or in a shop. The fraudster will then steal your card by using distraction techniques or pick pocketing.

Skimming is the term used when a fraudster attaches a device to an ATM to record the electronic details from the magnetic stripe of your card. A miniature camera is placed to overlook the PIN pad to capture you entering your PIN. The fraudster can then use the details to produce a fake magnetic stripe card which is then used with your PIN, usually to make ATM withdrawals overseas where Chip and PIN protection is not used.

Useful Links

• Find out how UK financial services tackle fraud
• Visit CIFAS the UKs fraud prevention service
• View our Automated contacts article