Stay safe from modern banking scams.

As scams keep changing, increasingly convincing messages, calls and adverts can make the real thing difficult to tell from a fake.

Discovery Bank has security features built into your banking experience to help protect you. But knowing how fraudsters operate is just as important, especially when you're shopping, travelling or spending more time online.

Here are some scams worth keeping on your radar.

Watch out for fake calls and messages

Fraudsters may impersonate banks, courier companies, government departments and other service providers through calls, email, SMS and messaging apps. Their aim may be to get your banking details, card details or OTP, or to persuade you to approve a transaction yourself.

Never share your passwords, PINs, OTPs, banking credentials or card details with anyone. Don't click suspicious links, and verify unexpected calls through official channels rather than using the contact details supplied by the caller or message.

Don't let a bargain cloud your judgement

When many people are searching for specials, fraudsters know there's an opportunity too.

Fake stores, fraudulent social media ads and spoofed retailer websites can advertise attractive deals and direct shoppers to fake payment pages. Some simply take payment for goods that will never arrive.

Check the web address before entering your payment details. Be cautious when a deal is far below normal market value and avoid paying directly into a personal account when shopping online.

Confirm holiday bookings before you pay

Fake accommodation and airline-ticket scams can turn holiday excitement into an expensive disappointment.

Scammers may advertise accommodation, holiday packages or flights that don't exist, then pressure you to pay a deposit to secure the deal.

Use reputable booking providers, research reviews and check the booking independently with the hotel, accommodation provider or airline. Be cautious if you're pushed to make an urgent payment.

Check changes to banking details

If a supplier suddenly sends you "new" banking details, don't simply use them.

Fraudsters can pose as suppliers and claim that payment details have changed, redirecting the payment into their own account. Check any change directly with the supplier using contact details you already trust, rather than the details supplied in the email or invoice.

Be careful with QR codes and apps

A QR code can be convenient, but it can also direct you somewhere you didn't intend to go. Fraudsters can use fake QR codes to steal information, while fraudulent apps can be used to steal data and money.

Avoid scanning QR codes from unknown sources. Only download apps from official stores, and pay attention to browser warnings and unusual app permissions.

Keep your cards and devices secure

A lost phone or card can put more than the device itself at risk.

Use a device passcode and biometric authentication where available. Monitor your account activity and transaction notifications, and report a lost or stolen card or device immediately. Keeping your banking app up to date also helps you benefit from the latest available protections.

Security built into Discovery Bank

Discovery Bank has added security measures across the banking experience.

Expanded TRUST alerts cover more transaction types, including EFTs, prepaid products and services, digital voucher purchases and additional PayShap payments. If suspicious activity is detected, an alert can give you the opportunity to pause and confirm whether you want to continue.

Online banking also offers QR-code login through the Discovery Bank app, while adding a secondary device includes selfie verification and an OTP sent to your registered primary device. To help protect you against coaching scams, certain in-app authorisations are also blocked while you're on an active phone call.

These protections are strongest when you stay alert too. If something doesn't feel right, stop before you pay, approve or share information.

If you suspect fraud, contact the Discovery Bank Fraud team on 011 324 4444. The fraud team is available 24/7, 365 days a year.