Capitec Bank's FREE in-app calling keeps users safe against scams
Capitec Bank has introduced technology such as in-app calling that lets clients speak directly to the bank from inside the app, without needing airtime or data.
Photo: Flickr/Del Terwin
CapeTalk's Lester Kiewit speaks to Andrew Baker, Chief Technology Officer at Capitec Bank.
Listen below:
Phishing is a type of cybercrime where attackers impersonate legitimate organisations or individuals to trick people into revealing sensitive information, such as passwords, credit card details, or other personal information.
This is typically done through deceptive emails, text messages, or websites designed to look trustworthy. The stolen information can then be used for identity theft, financial fraud, or other malicious purposes.
Phishing scams targeting bank clients are on the rise, with fraudsters using emails and texts that look almost identical to real bank communication.
For example, phishing might look like someone calling you from Capitec Bank, saying your account has been defrauded and all you need to do is move your money into a 'safer' account - once you give your details, the scam is complete and successful.
In response, Capitec Bank has introduced in-app calling that lets clients speak directly to the bank from inside the app, without needing airtime or data.
It’s a move that improves security, reduces fraud risk and makes support more accessible to clients who might otherwise be left out.
The latest bank app feature will alert you to an incoming call from Capitec Bank, with a notification in the app's chat for you to speak securely to a Client Care agent.
How does in-app calling work?
- Sign in to your app.
- Tap the phone icon in the top right corner, then tap 'Next'.
- Grant the app access to your microphone (you’ll only need to do this once).
- Tap 'General enquiries', 'Fraud' and 'Stop Card', 'Collections' or 'Loan enquiries'.
- Tap 'Continue' to start your call.
"If you're not sure, don't pick up... what we don't want people doing is Googling for the Capitec Call Center number and accidentally picking up an advert misdirecting them... the in-app calling means you're in control, you log into the app, you click a button and you tell us who you want to speak to... There's no, 'What's your mum's maiden name?' We know it's you because you've logged into the app, and what's more, it's free."
- Andrew Baker, Chief Technology Officer - Capitec Bank
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the full conversation.