Card Security
Nova includes a range of security features designed to help protect your payment cards from unauthorized use. While Nova continuously monitors...
Nova includes a range of security features designed to help protect your payment cards from unauthorized use. While Nova continuously monitors card activity, you also play an important role in keeping your cards secure.
This guide explains the security features available to you and the steps you can take to protect your virtual and physical cards.
Protecting Your Card
Treat your payment card as you would any other financial instrument.
To help keep your card secure:
- Keep your card details confidential.
- Only make purchases with trusted merchants.
- Never share your security code (CVV) unless completing a legitimate transaction.
- Review your card activity regularly.
- Report any suspicious activity immediately.
Whether you use a virtual or physical card, the same security practices apply.
Freeze Your Card
If you temporarily misplace your card or suspect unauthorized activity, you may be able to freeze it directly from your Nova account.
Freezing a card helps prevent new transactions while allowing you to reactivate it later if the card is recovered.
Freezing your card is often the quickest way to protect it without requesting a replacement.
Lost or Stolen Cards
If your physical card has been lost or stolen:
- Freeze the card immediately, if available.
- Review your recent transactions.
- Report the card as lost or stolen.
- Request a replacement card if necessary.
Taking action promptly helps reduce the risk of unauthorized transactions.
Monitor Your Transactions
Review your card transactions regularly to ensure all activity is legitimate.
Watch for:
- Purchases you do not recognize
- Duplicate charges
- Unexpected refunds
- Declined transactions you did not attempt
- ATM withdrawals you did not authorize
If you notice suspicious activity, contact Nova Support as soon as possible.
Online Shopping
When making purchases online:
- Shop only with reputable merchants.
- Ensure the website uses a secure connection.
- Avoid entering your card details on public or shared devices.
- Be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages requesting payment information.
Never provide your card details in response to unexpected requests.
Card Replacement
If your card is compromised, damaged, or no longer secure, you may be able to request a replacement through your Nova account.
Replacement cards are issued with new card credentials to help protect your account.
Security Notifications
Depending on your account, Nova may notify you about important card activity, including:
- Purchases
- ATM withdrawals
- Online transactions
- Declined payments
- Changes to card status
Enabling notifications helps you identify unauthorized activity more quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I lose my card?
Freeze the card immediately, review your recent transactions, and request a replacement if the card cannot be recovered.
Can I temporarily disable my card?
Yes. If supported by your account, you can freeze your card and unfreeze it later when you are ready to use it again.
How can I tell if my card has been compromised?
Review your transaction history regularly. Unexpected purchases, withdrawals, or declined transactions may indicate unauthorized activity.
Will I receive alerts when my card is used?
Depending on your notification preferences and available services, Nova may send notifications when card transactions occur.
Summary
Card security is a shared responsibility. By protecting your card details, monitoring your transactions, enabling account notifications, and using features such as card freezing, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized use and keep your Nova payment cards secure.