Built-in protection for real life: How to use your Security and Panic Codes

Your banking app does more than move money from A to B. At Discovery Bank, it's designed to protect you when things don't go to plan - whether that's a lost phone, a compromised profile or a moment of real-world pressure.

That's why Discovery Bank has built discreet, real-life security tools directly into the app. The Security Code and Panic Code work quietly in the background to protect both your money and your personal safety - without slowing you down when you're banking normally. They live inside your Digital Account Vault, and each serves a very specific purpose.

What is my Digital Account Vault?

The Digital Account Vault is an additional layer of protection within your Discovery Bank app. Think of it as a private, reinforced space that adds protection on top of the Bank's already robust digital security.

This matters more than ever. In South Africa, fraud has shifted away from systems and towards people. According to SABRIC, most banking fraud now involves coercion, manipulation or pressure on clients - not technical breaches.The Digital Account Vault is designed for exactly this reality.

The Security Code - control what others can see

The Security Code gives you control over account visibility. Once activated, selected accounts are hidden from view and only reappear when you enter your Security Code. This means sensitive balances, savings or credit facilities stay out of sight - even if someone gains access to your phone or app.

Use the Security Code to:

• hide selected transactional, savings or credit accounts
• keep sensitive balances and details private
• decide what's visible at any given time

You're always in control of what appears on your screen - and what doesn't.

How to set it up: More > Account Security

Tip: Choose a code that's memorable for you, but not obvious to anyone else - avoid predictable numbers like birth years.

Hide or reveal accounts in seconds

Managing account visibility is quick and flexible - designed to balance everyday convenience with extra protection when you need it. To hide or unhide accounts:

1. Log in to the Discovery Bank app
2. Tap Accounts
3. Open the menu in the top-right corner
4. Select Hide/Unhide accounts
5. Choose the account(s)
6. Tap Update

The Panic Code - protection when you can't ask for help

The Panic Code is built for high-pressure situations - when you're being forced to access your banking app against your will.

If you enter your Panic Code instead of your Security Code, your app behaves as normal. Nothing looks different. But behind the scenes, Discovery Bank's fraud team is immediately alerted and your live location is securely shared with them. It's a silent response designed to protect you without escalating the situation.

Why the Panic Code matters:

• no visible sign of distress
• works instantly and discreetly
• designed for moments of coercion or threat

You'll be prompted to set your Panic Code when creating your Security Code. It takes less than a minute here: More > Account Security

Tip: Choose a Panic Code you can recall under stress - and make sure it's different from your Security Code.

Security Code vs Panic Code - what's the difference?

Security designed for real life

Protecting your money also means protecting your information - and sometimes, protecting yourself. The Security Code and Panic Code aren't just digital features. They're practical tools built for how fraud actually happens today - quietly, quickly and often under pressure. That's what banking that looks out for you really means.

This article is meant only as information and should not be taken as financial advice. For tailored advice, please contact your financial adviser.