The Easter long weekend is something we all look forward to. It’s a time for reconnecting with family and friends. It’s a time for long-distance travel, particularly for those living inland who would like to enjoy some time at the beach before winter truly takes hold. It’s a time for traditions, and religious festivals. But, unfortunately, it’s also a time when criminals try to take advantage of your festive spirit and steal your money.

Safety Checklist for Your Easter Weekend

With money as tight as it is right now, it’s time to get serious about your safety, particularly when you are online. Whether you aim to spend this time shopping, volunteering, catching some sun, or exploring our beautiful country, please keep your guard up. Here is a helpful safety checklist for your Easter Weekend.

Following the crowds?

Large gatherings are par for the course over the Easter weekend, and it’s the perfect opportunity for criminals to prey on unsuspecting people. Please use a healthy dose of situational awareness and keep your eye on your belongings. Try not to carry large amounts of cash around with you - most retailers, even informal traders at festivals, are able to take payments with a card or even your phone.

Need an ATM?

If you need to draw money, it pays to play it safe. If the ATM looks to be in poor condition, or the card slot looks as if it has been tampered with, leave and find another ATM. Stand close to the machine so that anyone standing behind you cannot see you keying in your PIN. If possible, bring someone with you to act as an extra level of security. Keep your receipts – or better yet, avoid printing them altogether. With an online bank account, you will get a notification on your phone. Lastly, resist the temptation to count your money at the ATM.

Shopping from home?

Many retailers offer online discounts and bargains over the Easter weekend, so it’s a great time to shop from the comfort of your home. Criminals will try to take advantage of this, however, by  setting up fake websites to steal your info. To protect yourself and your cash, stick to recognisable websites. Always verify the URL before entering any personal info (look for the green padlock and HTTPS). Check out some of our online shopping tips here.

Too good to be true?

We all want a good bargain, something that offers real value for money. But, if something looks too good to be true, it is probably a scam. Reputable sellers won’t offer super expensive items for next to nothing. Please use your common sense! Avoid giving out your personal details in order to secure discounts or to enter draws for free prizes. These can sometimes be fraudulent attempts to steal your personal info.

Received a surprise offer?

Beware of any offers that you receive via email or SMS which come from merchants you don’t recognise. It could be a phishing attack. Always think before you click!