Credit Card Fraud: Spot It, Stop It, Fix It
More people in Africa are using cards and mobile payments — and fraudsters follow the money. If you want simple, practical steps to spot scams, lock down your accounts, and recover lost funds, this page is for you. No jargon, just what works right now.
How to spot credit card fraud fast
Look for small signs before they become big problems. Check your statements every few days or enable instant alerts on your phone. Red flags include charges you don’t recognise, tiny “test” amounts from unknown merchants, multiple declined payments, or sudden changes to online account details.
Watch for phishing texts and emails that ask for your full card number, CVV, or one-time codes. Legitimate banks never ask for those via email. Also be careful at ATMs and petrol pumps: a card reader that looks out of place or loose could be a skimming device.
Quick steps if your card is compromised
If you spot an unfamiliar charge, act fast. Follow these steps in order:
- Freeze or block the card immediately using your bank’s app or call centre.
- Report the fraud to your bank and dispute the specific transactions. Ask for a chargeback or provisional refund while they investigate.
- Change passwords for any linked online accounts and enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Check for other affected subscriptions or saved card details and cancel them.
- File a police report and keep a copy — banks sometimes ask for it when processing claims.
- Monitor your credit report and bank statements for at least 90 days after the fraud.
Acting quickly increases the chance you’ll get your money back and cuts further losses.
Ways to prevent card fraud
Prevention is mostly simple habits. Turn on instant transaction alerts and set low limits for contactless payments. Use virtual or single-use card numbers for online shopping when possible. Don’t save card details on sites you don’t trust.
When you pay in person, cover the keypad when entering your PIN and check the card reader for tampering. Avoid using public Wi‑Fi to shop or manage banking—use your mobile data or a trusted VPN. Shred old statements and receipts that contain card details.
If you run a business, require CVV entry and 3D Secure on online sales, train staff to spot skimming and fake IDs, and reconcile sales daily to catch problems early.
Fraud isn’t a sign of carelessness — it happens to good people. Small, consistent steps protect you more than a single big move. Keep alerts on, check statements, and call your bank the minute something looks off. Stay safe out there.
