Cards and cheques are one of the safest ways to pay, but they're also one of the most targeted by fraudsters. Understanding how card and cheque fraud happens, and what you can do to prevent it, makes a real difference.
Skimming: Card skimming is when a device is secretly attached to an ATM or payment terminal to steal your card data. The stolen data is then used to create a counterfeit card. Criminals having access to your PIN makes the stolen data significantly more valuable, which is why shielding your PIN every time at an ATM or payment terminal, without exception, is one of the most effective things you can do. Learn more about ATM safety.
Irish and European cards use chip technology which makes physical counterfeiting much harder. However, skimmed data can still be used to make fraudulent withdrawals in countries where chip technology isn't universal.
Card not present fraud: Your card details including the 16 digit long number, expiry date, and CVV can be used to make purchases online or by telephone without your physical card ever being stolen. Stolen details can be obtained in a number of ways including malware on your device, falling victim to Phishing or owing to a data breach with a merchant you previously used, to name a few examples. This type of fraud is increasingly common and is why it's important to remain vigilant and protect your card details and banking credentials as carefully as your PIN.
Criminals may also attempt to use the stolen details to add your Card to a payment wallet and complete Tokenised spends. Registration of Cards details to a payment wallet cannot be completed without 3 digits from your 6 digit personal access number and/or Onetime Passcode. Therefore, we request you to remain vigilant and Do not divulge Onetime Passcodes or complete Push notifications unless you have added your Card details to your payment wallet.
Lost and stolen cards: A card without a PIN can still be used for contactless payments up to a limit, and for online and telephone purchases. Report your card lost or stolen immediately, don't wait to see if it turns up.
Shield your PIN every time: Always cover the PIN pad when using an ATM or paying in store, even if nobody appears to be watching. Skimming devices often work alongside a hidden camera to capture your PIN.
Keep your card in sight: When paying in a restaurant or shop, keep your card in view. If a staff member needs to take your card to a till that isn't nearby, go with them.
Monitor your account regularly: Check your transactions in the PTSB app regularly. Set up push notifications so you're alerted to every payment as it happens, this is one of the fastest ways to spot something you don't recognise.
Freeze your card instantly: If your card is lost, stolen, or you spot a transaction you don't recognise, freeze it immediately in the PTSB app. You can unfreeze it if it turns up.
Protect your card details online: Only enter your card details on websites you trust. Look for 'https' and a padlock in the browser address bar before entering any payment information.
If a card or PIN doesn't arrive: Mail interception is a known fraud method. If you're expecting a new card or PIN in the post and it doesn't arrive within a reasonable timeframe, don't assume it's delayed. Contact us immediately on 0818 50 24 24 or +353 1 212 4101 (from abroad). Lines are open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays), and from 10am to 2pm Saturday and Sunday.
Cheque usage in Ireland has declined, but it remains a real risk, particularly targeting small businesses and older customers.
Fraudsters may alter the payee name or amount on a cheque after it has been written, use stolen or intercepted chequebooks to make fraudulent payments, or present counterfeit cheques that appear genuine but will ultimately be returned unpaid - sometimes weeks later.
A common scam to watch out for: You receive a cheque for more than the agreed amount and are asked to refund the difference by cash or bank transfer. By the time the cheque bounces, your cash is gone.
If you have been a victim of fraud or wish to report fraudulent activity, call our Fraud Department on +353 (1) 669 5851. Lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Not sure what to do next? Follow our step-by-step guide to freezing your card, changing your password, reporting to the Gardai, and protecting yourself going forward.
