LAGOS – The Electronic Payment Providers Association of Nigeria (E-PPAN) has advised Nigerians to be security -conscious when making electronic transactions, especially during festive period.
Mrs. Sylvia Ntia, the Media and Strategy Development Manager of E-PPAN, who gave the advice in a statement in Lagos, noted that fraudsters use festive seasons to carry out nefarious activities.
“Be it shopping physically at merchant outlets using the POS terminal, mobile Banking/Payment, online transactions or even at the ATM, Nigerians are advised to be security-conscious.’’
She said it was the duty of individuals to consider safety in all transactions.
“Like we always tell consumers, it is very safe to use any of the payment instruments, but to minimise the chances of becoming a victim of electronic fraud, we advise consumers to follow some safety tips.
“Look after your cards and card details at all times; try not to let your card out of your sight when making a transaction, and don’t leave your cards unattended in public places.
“We emphasise that never share your PIN with anyone; ensure you are the only person that knows your PIN,’’ she said.
She said a bank will never ask a customer to disclose his or her PIN, adding that people should avoid using ATM at isolated locations, especially at night and weekends.
“At the ATM when entering your PIN, stand close to the ATM, use your free hand and your body to shield the number in case someone is watching you over your shoulder.
“Once you have completed a transaction, put your money and card away before leaving the ATM.
“If the ATM does not return your card, report it immediately to your service provider; destroy or, preferably, shred your ATM receipts, mini-statements or balance enquiries when you dispose of them.
“If you think someone has seen your PIN, you can change it at the next ATM or by contacting your bank.’’
She also advised those traveling overseas to call their financial service providers and inform them of their location of travel.
When overseas, people should not let their cards out of sight, and should report any unfamiliar transactions to their financial service providers as soon as possible, she said.
She also said that those doing online transactions should only shop on secure sites.
“Before entering card details, ensure that the locked padlock or unbroken key symbol is showing in your browser.
“Additionally, the beginning of the online retailer’s internet address will change from ‘http’ to ‘https’ to indicate the connection is secure.
“Never send your PIN over the internet. Always log out properly after shopping online.
“If the website you have used has a ‘sign out’ or ‘log off’ button, click on it when you have finished, especially if you have been using a shared or public computer.
She expressed the need for people to be security-conscious when using a public computer or public Wi-Fi internet connection
