It's that time of the year again, but unfortunately even in the Bay of Plenty it's not all ho-ho-ho, gifts and goodwill to all men.

Fraudsters love the festive season - a time when the carefree, spend up and be merry spirit presents them with rich pickings.

NZBA chief executive Kirk Hope says people should enjoy the holidays, but be vigilant.

That's why the New Zealand Bankers' Association is urging us to beware of card fraud during the holidays.

'Enjoy, but be vigilant,” says NZBA chief executive Kirk Hope.

'At this time it pays to keep your guard up when using bank and credit cards, when you're out shopping or having a few drinks with friends and family.”

So whether you're using an eftpos terminal, getting cash from an ATM or buying a round at your local pub, here are some tips on how to keep your card safe and ensure your money stays your money.

• Guard your card. Treat it like cash. Don't leave it lying around. Make sure you know where your card is at all times.
• Protect your pin. Never tell anyone your pin or passwords – not the Police, bank staff, friends or family.
• Cover up. When entering your pin at ATMs and eftpos terminals, shield the pin pad with your other hand. Criminals may ‘skim' your card details by attaching a device to the card reader, and then ‘shoulder surf' or use hidden cameras to record your pin.
• Check your statements and advise your bank immediately of any unauthorised transactions.

Banks work hard to protect their customers from financial crime but they can't do it on their own.

'It requires a joint effort” says Kirk. 'By protecting your card and pin, you're helping protect yourself and your money.”

The bank will reimburse any losses if you're the genuine victim of fraud. But that promise doesn't override your responsibility to protect access to your accounts.

'If, for example, you give your pin number away, you won't be covered,” he adds.