Recognize the types of card fraud

Skimming devices can be illegally attached to ATMs and point-of-sale terminals to copy debit and credit card numbers when you swipe or insert your card. Fraudsters also use hidden cameras to capture PINs. 

Fraudsters may attempt to make fraudulent purchases over the phone, online or by mail using stolen card numbers and PINs. Many online merchants ask for the 3-digit CVV (card verification value or card security code) number to confirm authenticity. 

Fraudsters can make unauthorized transactions on your missing debit and credit card. It's important to report a lost or stolen card right away so we can help prevent unauthorized use.

Fraudsters can use your card to make transactions without your knowledge. They can use stolen debit and credit cards or information, or get new credit cards by applying with stolen personal information.

Understand the safeguards behind fraud prevention

Follow our best practices to protect yourself

  • Keep your PIN safe. Don't write down your PIN or share it with anyone. Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN at an ATM or point-of-sale terminal. 
  • Make your PIN unique and difficult to guess. Don't include information that's obvious or confidential, such as birthdates, phone numbers, addresses or your SIN.
  • Keep your card within sight at all times. Remember to take your card and transaction record with you once you complete your transaction.
  • If your card has a place for your signature, sign the back of a new or replacement card as soon as you receive it. Cut up or shred your old card.
  • Check your statements regularly to verify all transactions are correct. If you don't recognize a transaction, let us know right away Report debit and credit card fraud.
  • Reduce your daily transaction and withdrawal limits if you feel they're too high. This could limit the amount of money stolen through debit and credit card fraud.
  • Only provide card information to verified and reputable merchants. When using your card online, make sure the connection is secure. 
  • Don't provide card information over the phone unless you've initiated the call.
  • Place fraud or identity verification alerts on your credit report to catch any unauthorized credit applications. Learn how to check your credit report for fraud.
  • Report stolen and lost debit and credit cards to us right away. For credit cards, you can also lock them through online or mobile banking to prevent further use.  

Our promise for your money

If you've been affected by fraud and have met your responsibilities to keep your accounts safe, we'll help you get your money back. To learn more about the security guidelines for your accounts, review our Digital Banking Guarantee.

Notice anything suspicious? Let us know


Explore more about debit and credit card fraud

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Report fraud when it happens and track the latest data on fraud happening in Canada.