Stay safer with Discovery Bank's Security and Panic Codes

Your banking app shouldn't just manage money - it should help keep you safe. That's why Discovery Bank has built powerful, easy-to-use security features right into the app, giving you more control and peace of mind.
Two of the most important? The Security Code and Panic Code - both part of your Digital Account Vault. They may sound similar, but they're designed for very different situations. Here's how they work, and why they matter.
What is the Digital Account Vault?
Think of the Digital Account Vault as your app's private vault within a vault. While your Discovery Bank account is already protected by multiple layers of security, this feature adds an extra line of defence - especially useful if your device or banking profile is compromised.
Your Security Code keeps your accounts and data secure
Your new Security Code feature adds an extra layer of protection to any accounts you choose to hide. Once it's set up, those accounts stay hidden - and can only be accessed again by entering your Security Code. So you can choose which accounts to hide, and they'll remain invisible until you re-enter your Security Code.
- Use it to protect everyday accounts, savings, or credit facilities
- Stay in control of what's readily visible - and what's not
- Set it up quickly in the app: More > Account Security
Tip: Choose a code that's easy to remember, but hard for others to guess (not your birth year!)
Hide your sensitive accounts from view
Discovery Bank clients have always been able to choose which accounts to show - and which to keep hidden - in their banking app. It's quick and easy to manage. To hide or unhide an account, simply:
Select day-to-day accounts, savings and credit facilities to hide and secure if your phone is compromised. Maintain full control of account visibility at all times, balancing convenience with enhanced security needs.
- Log in to your banking app.
- Tap Accounts.
- Tapin the top-right corner
- Select Hide/Unhide accounts.
- Select the account(s) to hide or unhide.
- Tap Update.
Your Panic Code sends a silent SOS in an emergency
The Panic Code is designed for the worst-case scenario: when you're being forced to open your banking app against your will.
In this situation, if you enter your Panic Code instead of your Security Code, it'll still look like you're accessing your accounts as normal. But in the background, Discovery Bank's fraud team is alerted, and your live location is shared with them.
Tip: Choose a Panic Code that's easy to remember under stress. Just make sure it's different to your Security Code.
- A silent alert that is discreet and secure
- Works instantly with no visible sign of distress
- Helps protect you when you are being forced use your banking app against your will
You'll be prompted to set your Panic Code when you set up your Security Code. Just head to More > Account Security in the app - it only takes a minute.
A quick comparison between the Security Code and Panic Code
Feature | Security Code | Panic Code |
---|---|---|
Purpose | It hides sensitive information from view | It sends a silent alert in emergencies |
When to use it | While accessing your information during day-to-day banking activities | If you're forced to access your sensitive information under threat or coercion |
What happens? | You get access to your hidden accounts and information | Everything looks normal, but it quietly alerts our fraud team and shares your live location |
Why do these security measures matter?
These days, protecting your info and data is as important as protecting your money. With the Security Code and Panic Code, Discovery Bank gives you practical tools to stay one step ahead of fraud and stay safe - no matter what.
The Future of Banking. Now.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Security Code hides sensitive account info. The Panic Code sends a silent alert to Discovery Bank's fraud team if you're under duress.
In the app: Log in > More > Account Security. Set both codes in just a few taps.
Yes - but hidden accounts, balances and transactions won't be visible until you unhide them.
Your location is shared, your account is flagged, and the Discovery Bank fraud team is alerted. The app appears normal to anyone watching.
Security and Panic Codes can be set up by all Discovery Bank clients in South Africa but can only be used if you have a portfolio balance of R5,000 or more.
This article is meant only as information and should not be taken as financial advice. For tailored advice, please contact your financial adviser.