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The secret code of your credit card is much more than a simple number since it is the key to access your finances. Fraud linked to card withdrawals represents approximately 3% of all fraud in France and the annual damage caused is estimated at 37 million euros. As fraud becomes more professional, we must know how to take the right measures to stay away from scammers.
Don't be tempted by the easy way
Despite the warnings visible on payment terminals and ATMs and despite communications from banks, awareness among the general public remains insufficient. Many French people choose to modify the default secret code to simplify it, a choice which can prove dangerous, by opting for their date of birth or an easily remembered sequence of numbers.
200% Deposit Bonus up to €3,000 180% First Deposit Bonus up to $20,000In just a few clicks, it is possible to change your code via a banking application or an online personal space. However, a code that is too simple can open the door to disastrous consequences for your savings. Nick Berry, data scientist at Meta, has compiled a list of the most commonly used and, therefore, riskiest codes. If you don't want to see your money disappear, we advise you to change your password if it appears in this list.
Secret codes to avoid in 2024:
- 1234
- 1111
- 0000
- 1212
- 7777
- 1004
- 2000
- 4444
- 2222
- 6969
Banks also recommend not using codes associated with personal information such as a date of birth or postal code, and not reusing the same code for different services. It's even more critical for your bank account since it's your life savings that goes into it.
Shortly, France plans to increase the contactless payment ceiling to 80 euros. This measure aims to reduce the risk of hacking by limiting the exposure of secret codes. In addition, mobile payment, particularly via services like Apple Pay or Google Pay, offers a secure alternative that allows you to pay larger amounts – and with no code needed. Validation is done by facial recognition or fingerprint.
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