These card copying cases usually happen with magnetic stripe debit cards.
As soon as you realize that your card details have been copied, you can do the following:
- You can have the card closed and request a new card.
- You can renew the card with a renewal request. (When a card is renewed, the card number does not change, but the expiry date and CVV2 change.)
- You can change the card's PIN. (Considering the card renewal option, this option is not really recommended.)
How are card details copied?
Card copying (skimming) is usually done with a hidden reader placed in the card slot of ATMs or POS devices. This reader records the data on the card's magnetic stripe. The PIN is obtained with a hidden camera or a fake keypad. Counterfeit magnetic stripe cards are produced with the captured data.
Why are chip cards safer?
With chip cards, a cryptogram specific to each transaction is generated. Since a new valid cryptogram cannot be generated from the copied data, chip transactions are very difficult to copy. That is why counterfeit cards are usually used in countries where chips are not used or at points that accept magnetic stripe transactions.
Things to watch to prevent copying
- Check whether there is an unusual part on the ATM's card slot or keypad.
- Cover the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN.
- Keep your card's international usage turned off in the mobile app when you do not need it.
- Regularly monitor your account activity and SMS notifications.
Right to dispute
If your card details were copied and transactions were made without your knowledge, you can dispute these transactions by applying to your bank.
