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Banks call on customers to change ATM card PIN to protect accounts |
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Written by Nezam
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Thursday, 11 September 2008 |
Khaleej Times - 11 September, 2008
Banks in the UAE, grappling with a recent wave of ATM frauds from outside the country, reiterated their call for customers to change their ATM card’s PIN (personal identification number) to block criminals from accessing their accounts.
Burhan Khan, country head for retail banking, Royal Bank of Scotland, told Khaleej Times his bank, as a policy, would always encourage customers to frequently change their PIN.
“We are vigilant and closely monitoring the developments.” Jonathan Campbell-James, Head of Security and Fraud Risk, Middle East, HSBC Middle East, said HSBC continued to urge customers to do a PIN change. “A PIN change will protect them from further inconvenience, because it is good routine practice, and because it will further protect their accounts in the current circumstances.
Visa International said it was aware of a possible network intrusion in UAE and would participate in any investigation. “The company is working with all banks to ensure that appropriate security measures are being taken to prevent any potential breaches.” In February, the Central Bank of the UAE warned that criminals installed a card skimming device and video camera on at least one ATM in the UAE.
Card details and PIN numbers were exposed in the attack that lasted from February 19 to 25, 2008. The stolen details can be used to create fake cards or make purchases online. Campbell-James said HSBC customers affected by the fraud are being contacted and would be issued new cards free of charge. “Any fraudulent transaction will be reimbursed to the customer.” Source: http://www.gulfinthemedia.com/index.php?id=428338&news_type=Economy&lang=en |
