Nicholas Steven Wynne, an Irish expatriate and teacher at Shanghai United International School, has lived in Shanghai for several years. During his time in China, Wynne has witnessed the country’s rapid development and improvement in Shanghai’s living standards. 

A few years ago, Wynne encountered an unexpected incident involving overseas bank card fraud. His bank card was illegally used, resulting in a loss of 5,000 yuan. Wynne believed it was essential to uphold his legal rights and filed a lawsuit with a court in Shanghai.

After accepting the case, judges at the Shanghai Hongkou Primary People’s Court conducted an investigation. Applying a mix of legal principles, real-life experience and logical reasoning, they determined that there was a significant chance of fraudulent transactions involving counterfeit cards, and Wynne bore no responsibility in the matter. Based on this professional judgment, the court ruled that the issuing bank should fully compensate him for his financial loss. The judgment was swiftly and fully enforced.

Reflecting on this experience, Wynne said, "As a resident of Shanghai and a consumer, this judgment gave me a strong sense of security.” 

He added that he appreciated the professionalism and fairness of the Shanghai court, saying that it has strengthened his confidence in the city's financial environment.

With significant advances in Shanghai’s banking chip technology and enhanced security measures, cases of card fraud like Wynne’s have significantly dropped. Bank cards often serve as foreign visitors’ initial point of contact with Shanghai’s financial sector, and their security is now protected. Wynne said he enjoys the convenience and safety of financial services in Shanghai, where the judicial system acts as a strong safeguard for consumers.

Wynne said that he has witnessed continuous efforts made by Shanghai’s financial judiciary to protect consumer rights and promote high-quality financial development and that he looks forward to sharing these experiences with family and friends back in Ireland. 

“I want the world to see a China that is advancing innovation-driven development, and features equality and inclusiveness,” he added. 

“This is also an important part of being a teacher, where we encourage cultural communication and exchanges.”