Revolut has issued a Christmas warning to customers about a devious new way criminals are stealing money from unsuspecting victims.
The e-banking app said thieves are using a technique called "shoulder surfing" which sometimes involves fake taxis. Criminals will target an individual, and try to observe their mobile phone passcode by spying on them by looking over their shoulders.
Once they see the passcode, they will try to steal the phone. Sometimes this is done using an accomplice in a fake taxi, where the thief will wait until the victim is leaving and calls their fake cab.
Read more: Thefts in Dublin jump by almost 40% in 2022
Once in the taxi, the victim’s phone is stolen using various tactics - such as the driver saying they need to check maps. If your mobile phone passcode is the same or similar to your banking app passcodes, criminals can use this to access your accounts and steal money.
They can also change the device and banking app face verification, as well as access your stored Apple or Google Pay cards. Here are some top tips on how to keep your money safe:
Protect your passcodes. Be wary of shoulder surfers and people looking at your phone. Criminals may try to trick you
Ensure your mobile phone passcode is different from your banking app passcodes. To change your Revolut passcode, tap on your profile in the top left of the home screen > Security & Privacy > Change passcode
Be wary of fake taxis. Don’t accept a ride if it looks suspicious
Here is what Revolut customers should do if their phones are stolen:
A spokesperson said: "If your phone has been stolen it's important that you contact us as soon as possible via the in-app chat so we can help secure your account. Use a trusted friend or family member’s mobile phone to access your Revolut account. To speak to our support team, tap on your profile in the top left of the home screen > Help > New chat.
If you need help being redirected to chat, you can also reach out to us via DM on social media or through our dedicated email report.fraud@revolut.com. If you use other banking apps, report the theft to them immediately too.
"Most phone manufacturers allow for remote lock or erase functionality. Make sure you have a registered account with your device manufacturer and ensure you know how to activate these security measures if you need to. Finally, report the theft to your nearest garda station, or by calling 999 or 112."
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