Given the Covid-19 crisis and the evolution of contactless payments globally, the MBA and its member banks are willing to increase customers’ awareness around the usage of contactless payments which are quite new on the market and the best practices to be adopted, at the same time ensuring that contactless transactions remain safe and bolster consumer confidence. These have been prepared by the MBA Card Fraud Prevention Forum.
Customers should be encouraged to protect themselves and their families, by avoiding using cash or ATMs during this pandemic (use only if necessary). Customers may shop online or use their contactless cards for their payments, which may limit the spread of the virus. Of note, contactless card transactions are free of charge. From a merchant perspective this is a User-Friendly payment option to enhance customer experience and less queuing.
Important Safety Tips
Beware of pickpockets
Do not keep your cards in easily accessible pockets or bags which will draw pickpockets’ attention.
Do not give your card to anyone for payments
Do not give your card to anyone for payments. Always make sure you are present for card payment.
Safety and sanitary precautions
For safety and sanitary precautions, carry out contactless payments yourself instead of handing it over to the cashier.
Ask for a receipt
Always ask for a receipt to ensure you were charged the correct amount.
Pin not required & limited transactions
Contactless Cards provide a Tap and go facility. These are no PIN based transactions, which are allowed up to specific limits set by banks.
RFID blocking wallets
Make use of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) blocking wallets, where applicable.
Regular check
Check your bank balance, and account statement frequently, to ensure that your card is not being misused.
Verify your daily transactions using Internet/Mobile Banking. Inform your bank if you see anything unusual.
Keep your contact details up-to-date
Keep your bank up-to-date with your latest contact details, such as your mobile number and email address.
Take immediate action
If you believe your PIN (for higher value transactions) has become known to other persons, change it immediately.
Report any card loss and suspected fraud
Be vigilant about any possible loss of your card. Report any card loss and suspected fraud immediately to your Bank.
