Card safety

If a criminal has stolen your card or bank details, they could try to access your bank account. Discover the tactics fraudsters use, so you can learn how to keep your card safe.

 

Keep your card safe

Using your debit or credit card is a safer way to pay for things and helps to protect your money from scams. This is because we can trace your money if you fall victim to fraud.

You should never let anyone else use your card or PIN. And you should always know where your card is.

Spot the tactics fraudsters use

Card theft

Criminals might stand close behind you at a cash machine because they want to see your PIN. If they do, they may try to steal your card – either right away or a little later. Always keep your card in a safe place and know where it is.

It’s safer and more private to use a Bank of Scotland Cashpoint® inside a branch if you can. When you get money out, make sure to look around to check that no one is too close behind you. As you type in your PIN, shield the keypad.

If your card is lost or stolen, report it right away

 

Phishing

One of the ways fraudsters try to steal card and bank details is by sending out emails and texts with fake links, so that they can commit fraud. 

You’ll never get a message from us asking you to enter your card or bank details. If you get a message that you’re not sure about, delete it and get in touch.

Find out more about scam messages

PIN security

To keep your money safe, never take a photo of your debit or credit card. And if you can, try to memorise your PIN, and never write it down.

If you forget your PIN, you can use the Mobile Banking app to view it.

If you think someone else knows your PIN, change it as soon as you can. You can do this at a Bank of Scotland Cashpoint.

Card skimming

Fraudsters may attach a small device, known as a skimmer, to a card reader or cash machine. This captures data from the magnetic strip on the back of your card. They could also be using a hidden camera to capture your PIN.

If you need to withdraw money from your account, it’s safer to use a cash machine in branch.

When you need to pay for something, keep hold of your card, pay at a till or wait for the card reader to come to you. Contactless and phone apps are quick, safe and you don’t need your PIN.

If you notice anything unusual or suspicious on a card reader or cash machine, avoid using it and report it to the bank or cash machine operator.

Digital wallet fraud

A digital wallet stores your debit or credit card information on your phone. So, you can make contactless payments without using your physical card.

The main risk is that thieves could steal your phone. With your bank or digital wallet details, they could take over your money.

If you get a text or call asking for your digital wallet details, it’s a scam. Check your details in your digital wallet and make sure not to follow links from anyone you don’t know.

Passcode scams

If a scammer gets hold of your card and your personal or banking information, they might phone you pretending to be your bank. 

You may be asked for a one-time passcode, password or to approve a payment or refund on the Mobile Banking app.

If you receive a call like this, hang up.

Learn more about passcode scams

Didn’t receive what you paid for?

If you bought something with your debit or credit card that hasn’t been delivered, or isn’t as you expected, you may be able to get your money back. We’re here to support you.

Learn more about transaction disputes

Learn about other scams and how to protect yourself

Scam calls

Learn how fraudsters use your details to win your trust.

Avoid scam calls

Scam emails and texts

Fraudsters try to steal your details through emails and texts.

Avoid scam messages

Pension scams

Fraudsters can target your pension by pretending to be someone you trust.

Protect your pension

Investment scams

Fraudsters may pretend to be a genuine company or adviser.

Avoid investment scams

Protect your devices

Learn how to keep your devices safe.

Learn about device safety

Protect your identity

Fraudsters might try to steal your personal and banking details.

Keep your identity safe

Learn about the latest scams

Fraudsters are always looking for new ways to try to steal your details and money. Discover which scams are common right now.

Go to latest scams

Have you been targeted by fraudsters

Contact us right away if you think you’ve been scammed. We can then guide you on what to do next.

Contact us now

Stay scam safe

Discover how to spot and avoid scams, and how to report fraud.

Protect yourself from fraud

Stay scam safe

Discover how to spot and avoid scams, and how to report fraud.

Protect yourself from fraud