card security

• Online Shopping
• ATM & EFTPOS Skimming
• Travelling Overseas
• Tips For Card Protection

Online shopping

Many people appreciate the convenience of shopping online, but have concerns about providing their debit or credit card details to make purchases.

Enjoy extra security with SMS code when you shop online

If you shop online using your Bankwest debit or credit card, then you’ll get extra security with SMS code at sites that display the MasterCard SecureCode or Verified by Visa logos. If a stronger identity check is required, we’ll ask you to enter a 6 digit code which we’ll send via text message to your mobile. All you need to do is correctly type the code online to complete your purchase.

• How does SMS code protect me?

  SMS code is our strongest (happiest) level of security as it requires you to have "something you know" (your SMS code)" plus "something you have" (your mobile phone) to complete certain transactions. This makes it harder for somebody else to try and make any payments using your account details.

• When will I be asked to enter an SMS code?

  You’ll only need to enter an SMS code for purchases above a certain dollar amount. Once you have entered your credit card details, then you’ll next see the screen below. All you need to do is click SMS me now and we’ll send an SMS code via text to your mobile. Grab the 6 digit code in the text and retype this in the enter SMS code box and click submit.
  

• How do I register for SMS code?

  As long as we have your Australian mobile number, then you will be automatically registered for SMS code as soon as you activate a new MasterCard debit or credit card. You’ll receive a welcome text message to confirm you are registered.
  
  If you’re an existing card customer and we have a valid, Australian mobile on record then you don’t need to lift a finger. We’ll automatically register you for SMS code so you can access better security when you shop online.
  
  To update your mobile number, please call us on 13 17 19 or 13 7000 for business customers.

• Will I still be able to shop online if I don’t have a mobile?

  Yes. If you’re not registered for SMS code then your online shopping experience will not change and you will still be protected by our No Loss Security Guarantee

• What if I have friends or family as additional cardholders on my card?

  If a stronger, identity check is required, then everyone will see the screen below once the credit card details have been entered. They just need to select their name from the cardholder list and click next. If we have an Australian mobile number recorded for any cardholder then they will be automatically registered for SMS code. They will be asked to enter an SMS code on the next screen. If they aren’t registered for SMS code then they will still be able to complete their purchase.

• What if I'm overseas or roaming?

  As long as you have activated global roaming on your mobile, you will still receive SMS codes whilst overseas. If you don't have roaming enabled or if you don't plan on taking your mobile with you, please call us prior to departing on 13 17 19 or 13 7000 for business customers. Don't forget, you will only be prompted to enter an SMS code for purchases above a certain amount at sites that display the MasterCard SecureCode or Verified by Visa logos.

Here are some tips to help make online shopping more secure:

• only purchase items from businesses you trust, such as those with a well known brand or reputation, or from whom you've previously purchased items
• if you have any doubts, check the merchant is authentic by giving them a call
• before entering your card details make sure the site is using data encryption - look for an 'https' within the address bar or a padlock icon
• keep a record of your transaction in case you need to return or exchange an item
• let us know if your contact details change so that we can get in touch with you if we suspect there is suspicious activity on your card. You can update your details in BOB or OBB, at a store or by calling 13 17 19 or 13 7000 for business customers
• if you find there has been unauthorised use of your debit or credit card, notify us immediately on 13 17 19 or 13 7000 for business customers
• always read the small print on sites offering free or $1 trials