South Africa: Avoiding crime part4 (ATM/Banking/Shopping)

For actual reports, on crime, visit: Http://white-southafrican.blogspot.com

ATM Safety

At the ATM and during the transaction

Always, use ATMs that are well-lit and not totally deserted. Some banks have guards at their ATM’s, so use these whenever possible.

Before you approach the ATM, scan the area and avoid using an ATM if it is isolated or looks unsafe in any way.

Have your card in you hand or pocket before you approach the ATM A and avoid opening your purse, bag or wallet while in the queue.

Never use an ATM that appears to have any attachments to the unit or card slot.

Never use an ATM where notices are posted that the normal screen operations have been changed.

ATM Criminals work in teams. Some might distract you, while others try to steal your PIN code, wallet or valuables. You should never accept help with any transaction from an unknown person.

Watch out for “shoulder surfing”, people standing right behind you to watch you enter your PIN. Also keep a lookout for mirrors or persons who have mirrors with them

When using an ATM, stand real close to it and shield the keypad with your free hand when entering your PIN. Try to use the knuckle of your middle finger for key operations.

Never enter in your PIN until the ATM prompts you to do so.

If you have the slightest doubt the ATM is not working as it should, press cancel, withdraw your card and leave the area. Report the matter to the bank.

Always take your receipt or transaction records with you in order protect information of your account and the amounts of money available in it.

After the Transaction

· Ensure that the card returned after the transaction is indeed yours.

· Always keep cash withdrawals to the absolute minimum.

· Never count the cash at the ATM.

· Keep a look out for people following you after completing your transaction. They could be on foot or in a vehicle.

· If you suspect that you are being followed, move to the nearest public place immediately.

When Receiving Cheques

· If you decide to sell anything in the country, avoid being paid by a cheque at all costs.

Safety while Shopping

· Do not carry a large amount of money with you.

· Valuable possessions should never be left in the shopping trolley.

· Children must always be accompanied to a public toilet.

· Your wallet should be carried in an inside pocket and never in your back pocket.

· Handbags should be carried around your neck and diagonally across your body. It should never be carried across the shoulder only.

· Be vigilant when the cashier is scanning your items. The customer before you could put some of your items in his/her shopping bag and you might pay for it.

 · If you are paying in cash, only take out the cash that is needed.

· Children should be taught not to eat anything in a shop, until you have paid for it.

· Small children should be held by hand or on a leash in shopping centers.

· If you have too many bags, place them in the boot of your car, before doing more shopping.

General notes on shopping and banking

The South African banking system is well developed and you will find all major banks have outlets in most cities and towns. ATM’s can also be found easily, but it is preferable to use those ones that are situated inside shopping malls or where guards are available.

Pick pockets are often operating in areas where a lot of people are pushing against each other, such as markets and shopping malls. Be mind-full of this and do not be distracted by unknown persons. These distractions are often orchestrated in order to create an opportunity for a pick pocket.

Stolen good are often offered at knocked down prices in South Africa. Avoid buying expensive looking items from street vendors or people who approach you on the street. Buying gold jewelry and any gem stone products from street vendors should always be avoided.

Ask your host about safe shopping destinations and use a reputable taxi to take you there and back. If at all possible, your host’s transport options should be used.

South Africa offers great value for money to visitors who have international currency, but it is common knowledge that dealers will raise prices if they know the customer is a foreigner. Be careful of this and first check out prices for similar items at other dealers and shops. Most vendors at markets and some shops will accept some haggling on prices, as long as it is done in a friendly manner.

You should never let anyone take your credit card away from you. Let them bring the credit card machine to you and then complete the transaction. Always check that the amount shown on the slip and the actual price corresponds.

 For actual reports, on crime, visit: Http://white-southafrican.blogspot.com