All incidents
I think I was targeted by a banking scam
You received a call, SMS, or email claiming to be from your bank, asking you to verify details, approve a transaction, or move money to a 'safe account'. A request for your PIN, full password, one-time code, or a transfer to a 'safe account' is a major scam warning sign. Contact your bank directly through a trusted channel.
Do this now
- Stop the conversation or don't respond to the message.
- If you already shared a PIN, password, or OTP, contact your bank immediately through the number on the back of your card or their official app.
- If you already transferred money, report it to your bank as soon as possible — faster reporting improves the chance of recovery.
Then do this
- Change your online banking password and PIN.
- Enable additional transaction alerts if your bank offers them.
- Watch your statements closely for the next few weeks.
Check these things
- Did the caller or message ask for your PIN, password, or a one-time code?
- Were you asked to move money to a 'safe' or 'holding' account?
- Does the caller ID or sender match your bank's known contact details?
Don't do this
- Don't call back a number given to you by the suspicious caller or message.
- Don't move money anywhere on someone else's instruction, even if they sound official.
When should I get help?
- Contact your bank's official fraud line immediately.
- Report the incident to the South African Police Service if money was lost.