Turkey’s Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency (BDDK) has announced new security measures aimed at combating the growing number of fraud cases in mobile and online banking. One of the key changes is the introduction of restrictions on cash withdrawals using credit cards during night hours.

New rules: what will change

According to the regulation, which will come into force soon, from 22:00 to 06:00 bank customers will be able to withdraw cash only after verifying their identity using a chip-enabled ID card (the new Turkish ID).

To complete this verification, a smartphone with NFC capability is required. If a user does not have a chip ID card or their phone does not support NFC, night-time cash withdrawals will not be possible.

Why the rules are being tightened

According to BDDK, Turkey has seen a rapid increase in fraud cases involving access to bank cards and online accounts, especially at night.

Fraudsters carry out transfers and cash withdrawals while cardholders are asleep and unable to react to notifications. Often, users discover significant unauthorized withdrawals only in the morning, when it is already too late to reverse them.

The agency notes that the peak of unauthorized activity occurs during night hours, which prompted the introduction of additional security measures.

How the new system will work

               •             Restriction period: daily from 22:00 to 06:00

               •             Cash withdrawal: only after verification via a chip ID card

               •             Technical requirement: a smartphone with NFC to scan the ID

               •             Without ID or NFC: operations are possible only during the day

Thus, users with old ID cards or devices without NFC will need to plan their cash withdrawals for daytime hours.

Purpose of the reform

BDDK states that the measure aims to enhance customer protection, reduce the number of fraudulent transactions and prevent attacks through fake mobile applications and phishing websites.

What banks recommend customers to do

               •             Ensure you have the new chip-enabled ID card

               •             Check whether your smartphone supports NFC

               •             Enable two-factor authentication

               •             Avoid clicking suspicious links in SMS or messaging apps