Stay smart. Stay safe. Stay scam-aware
Your Discovery Bank security just got even stronger! These new enhancements - expanded TRUST™ alerts, QR-code online banking login, enhanced device verification and protection against coaching scams - are designed to keep your money safe.
Cybercriminals are getting more sophisticated - but so is your bank!
At Discovery Bank, protecting your money is one of our highest priorities. That's why we continuously strengthen the security built into your banking experience - while keeping you informed about the latest scams so you can spot them early.
The good news? Your Discovery Bank app already includes powerful built-in protections - and we've recently enhanced them even further.
Stronger protection built into your banking
As a behavioural bank, Discovery Bank uses advanced technology to understand your normal banking patterns and alert you when something doesn't look right. We've recently introduced four new enhancements that give you even more control and protection.
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Expanded TRUST™ alerts
TRUST™ alerts now cover even more types of transactions.
You'll now receive alerts for suspicious activity on EFTs, prepaid products and services, digital voucher purchases, and additional PayShap payments. If something doesn't look right, the alert gives you the opportunity to pause the transaction and confirm whether you want to continue.
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QR-code login for online banking
Logging into online banking is now even more secure.
Instead of entering credentials on the website, you simply scan a unique QR code using your Discovery Bank app. Because the QR code is unique to each session, it ensures it's always you accessing your online banking profile.
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Stronger protection when adding a new device
Installing the Discovery Bank app on a new device now includes enhanced multi-factor authentication.
When adding a secondary device, you'll complete a selfie verification and confirm a secure one-time PIN (OTP). The OTP is always sent to your registered primary device - ensuring only you can activate the app.
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Protection against "coaching scams"
Fraudsters sometimes try to manipulate victims during phone calls - talking them through a fraudulent transaction step-by-step.
To help prevent this, certain in-app authorisations will now be blocked while you're on an active phone call. This helps protect you from social engineering attempts. Transactions that don't require authorisation will continue as normal.
Common scams to watch out for
Even with strong technology in place, awareness remains one of the most powerful tools to stop fraud. Here are some of the scams we're seeing most often - and how to protect yourself.
Change of banking details scam
Fraudsters send emails or letters pretending to be a supplier and claim that their banking details have changed. Payments are then redirected to a fraudulent account.
How to protect yourself
- Always verify banking details using your own trusted contact information.
- Never rely on contact details provided in the email or invoice.
- Confirm any changes to banking details directly with the supplier before paying.
More scams - and your best defence
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The scam |
The shield |
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Fake SAPS call |
SAPS will never ask you to transfer money to a "safe" account. Never move funds or share banking details with someone calling you unexpectedly.
|
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ATM card swaps and skimming |
Never accept help at an ATM. If something feels suspicious, cancel the transaction and block your card immediately. |
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Phishing and vishing |
Banks will never ask for personal information via email, SMS or calls. Always read authorisation messages carefully and turn on transaction alerts. |
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Tax season trickery |
Don't click suspicious links or open unknown attachments. Never share banking or personal details. |
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Lost or stolen card or device fraud |
Keep your PIN secure, lock your phone and report lost items to your bank immediately. |
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The "investment" trap |
Be cautious of guaranteed returns. Always check with a licensed financial adviser. |
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Quishing (QR-code phishing) |
Don't scan random QR codes. Watch for browser warnings and avoid unknown sources. |
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Fake apps |
Only download apps from official stores. Use mobile security software and uninstall suspicious apps. |
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AI-powered scams |
Fraudsters may use AI to create convincing messages or deepfakes. Always verify unusual requests directly with your bank. |
We're here to help
At Discovery Bank, your security is constantly evolving. With advanced protections like TRUST™ alerts, QR-code login and multi-factor verification built into your app, you already have powerful tools working to keep your money safe.
If something doesn't feel right, stop, check, and contact us immediately. Remember, you can reach our fraud team 24/7 on 011 324 4444, 365 days a year.
Stay smart. Stay safe. Stay scam-aware.
