Stay smart. Stay safe. Stay scam-aware
Stay smart. Stay safe. Stay scam aware. Discovery Bank helps you spot scams early - from fake banking details to puppy fraud - so you can protect your money and stay secure.
At Discovery Bank, your security is our priority. That's why we're keeping you informed about the latest scams - so you can spot them early and protect yourself.
Cybercriminals are getting smarter. But so are you.
Here are some of the most common scams we're seeing right now - and how you can shield yourself.
Change of banking details scam
This scam is when fraudsters send fake emails or letters, often using cloned company letterheads. They claim that the supplier has changed or updated their banking details and tell you to make a payment into the new - fraudulent - account. Sometimes, criminals intercept genuine supplier emails and change the banking details on invoices to redirect payments to the fraudsters' accounts.
How to protect yourself
- Always verify banking details with your own trusted sources from the supplier.
- Don't rely on the contact details provided in the email or letter.
- Beware when you get changed or updated banking details. Confirm directly with the supplier before making any payments..
Puppy scams
Some individuals will choose to purchase a pet, but scammers exploit this by posing as pet sellers online, advertising adorable puppies that don't exist. They tug at your heartstrings, then ask for payment by EFT - often adding fake costs like shipping or vet fees. Once paid, they vanish.
How to protect yourself
- If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Criminals use low prices to lure you into buying these pets.
- Criminals often pressure you to pay quickly, then disappear.
- Never pay for pets you haven't gone in person to see. Meet with the seller and see the pet before making any payment.
Know the scam. Use the shield.
Here are more scams to watch out for - and how to stay safe:
| The scam | The shield |
| Fake SAPS call Fraudsters pretend to be SAPS and ask you to move money to a "safe" account. |
SAPS will never ask for money. Never transfer funds or share banking details with anyone who calls you. |
| ATM card swops and skimming Scammers tamper with ATMs or watch you enter your PIN. |
Never accept help at an ATM. Cancel the transaction and block your card if anything feels off. |
| Phishing and vishing Emails, SMSs or calls ask you to verify personal info. |
Banks will never ask for personal info. Read authorisation messages carefully and turn on transaction alerts. |
| Tax season trickery Scammers impersonate SARS to steal your info. |
Don't click suspicious links or open unknown attachments. Never share banking or personal details. |
| Lost or stolen card or device fraud Fraudsters use stolen cards or devices to access your money. |
Keep your card and PIN secure. Lock your phone and report lost items to your bank immediately. |
| The 'investment' trap Fake investors promise guaranteed returns. |
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Check with a licensed financial adviser. |
| Quishing (QR code phishing) Scammers use fake QR codes to steal your info. |
Don't scan random QR codes. Watch for browser warnings and avoid unknown sources. |
| Fake apps Fraudulent apps steal your data and money. |
Only download apps from official stores. Use mobile security software and uninstall suspicious apps. |
| AI-powered scams Scammers use AI to create convincing messages and deepfakes. |
Banks will never ask for sensitive info electronically. Always double-check with your bank's fraud team |
We're here to help
Discovery Bank is committed to keeping you safe. We use advanced security tools and real-time alerts to help you spot fraud before it happens. But awareness is your best defence.
If you ever feel unsure, stop and check. Call our fraud team immediately on 011 324 4444 24/7, 365 days a year.
Stay smart. Stay safe. Stay scam-aware.
