Protect yourself from fraud and scams with Visa

You can feel secure when you shop with Visa, knowing our payment technology is helping to protect you from fraud, and if the worst was to happen, there is a way you could get your money back.

Visa fraud protection safeguards your debit and credit cards


Top tips to help you avoid debit and credit card scams

Here are just a few of our expert pieces of advice and insights on ways you can help ensure you’re always paying for things securely and protecting yourself against card scams.

What to do if someone has used your card

If you spot suspicious payments on your card, report them immediately to your bank. If your card has been used fraudulently, you could be protected by Visa’s Zero Liability Policy. This means you could get your money back.

How scammers operate, and how to protect yourself

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Card theft

Your card can be stolen from the post or from your wallet. Criminals can use it for contactless payments and online purchases as these don’t need a PIN. If you’re expecting a new card and it doesn’t arrive, contact your bank.

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Phishing websites

Phishing websites mirror real websites very closely to trick you into revealing your card and personal details. A few signs to watch out for: the wrong URL, spelling errors, designs or website pages that don’t quite look right.

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Email scams

Email scams usually aim to make you part with your details or money. Popular scams include emails that offer you a large sum of money for a small fee, or ‘You’re a winner – claim your prize’ types of emails.

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ID theft

Criminals can obtain personal information from stolen or discarded documents (like receipts, bank statements and bills). They also go through people’s social media profiles to learn more about them. Shred sensitive documents and be careful what you reveal across your social media channels.

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Card skimming

A credit or debit card can be easily cloned. Skimming devices can be fitted to an ATM to capture your details, so always check for unusual devices around the card slot. If you’re paying at a shop or restaurant, an employee can put your card into a device which copies the key information – so try not to let your card out of your sight.

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Social engineering

This is a sophisticated form of phishing and a clever con trick. A criminal poses as someone legitimate like a bank employee who needs to check your account, or a tax official who needs you to make an urgent payment. If you’re suspicious, say and pay nothing. Contact the organisation directly.


Find the answers to these common questions about fraud and scams

Think you’ve been a victim?

For most types of scams, you should first visit the Action Fraud website. But if a scam is putting you or someone else in immediate danger, call the police immediately on 999. If you believe you’ve been a victim of credit or debit card fraud you should report the activity to your bank or card provider.

Articles, tips and advice

How you pay matters: Secure and protected with Visa

Whether you’re paying by card, mobile device or digital wallet, when you pay with Visa, you can pay with confidence. You have the peace of mind that your payment is secure and you have protection if something goes wrong.