Everyone needs to be wary these days. Identity theft is a growing business, reduce the risk to yourself by protecting your credit and debit cards. Follow our guide below to reduce your risk of becoming a victim.
- Keep an eye on your credit card every time you use it, and make sure you get it back as quickly as possible. Do not let your credit card out of your sight..
- Be very careful to whom you give your credit card. Don't give out your account number over the phone unless you initiate the call and you know the company is reputable. Never give your credit card info out when you receive a phone call. (For example, if you're told there has been a 'computer problem' and the caller needs you to verify information.) Legitimate companies don't call you to ask for a credit card number over the phone.
- Never respond to emails that request you provide your credit card info via email -- and don't ever respond to emails that ask you to go to a website to verify personal (and credit card) information. These are called 'phishing' scams.
- Never provide your credit card information on a website that is not a secure site.
- Sign your credit cards as soon as you receive them.
- Shred all credit card applications you receive.
- Don't write your PIN number on your credit card -- or have it anywhere near your credit card (in the event that your wallet gets stolen).
- Never leave your credit cards or receipts lying around.
- Shield your credit card number so that others around you can't copy it or capture it on a cell phone or other camera.
- Keep a list in a secure place with all of your account numbers and expiration dates, as well as the phone number and address of each bank that has issued you a credit card. Keep this list updated each time you get a new credit card.
- Only carry around credit cards that you absolutely need. Don't carry around extra credit cards that you rarely use.
- Open credit card bills promptly and make sure there are no bogus charges. Treat your credit card bill like your checking account -- reconcile it monthly. Save your receipts so you can compare them with your monthly bills.
- If you find any charges that you don't have a receipt for -- or that you don't recognize -- report these charges promptly (and in writing) to the credit card issuer.
- Always void and destroy incorrect receipts.
- Shred anything with your credit card number written on it.
- Never sign a blank credit card receipt. Carefully draw a line through blank portions of the receipt where additional charges could be fraudulently added.
- Carbon paper is rarely used these days, but if there is a carbon that is used in a credit card transaction, destroy it immediately.
- Never write your credit card account number in a public place (such as on a postcard or so that it shows through the envelope payment window).
- Ideally, it's a good idea to carry your credit cards separately from your wallet -- perhaps in a zipped compartment or a small pouch.
- If using an ATM (automated cash dispenser) follow these simple steps:
Always observe the ATM surroundings before conducting a transaction. If anyone or anything appears to be suspicious, leave the area at once. If you drive to an ATM, park as close as possible to the terminal. Observe the entire area from the safety of your car before getting out.
If an ATM is obstructed from your view or poorly lit, go to another ATM. It is a good idea to take another person with you when using an ATM, especially at night.
Minimise the time spent at the ATM when conducting a transaction. Have your card out and ready to use. Do not allow a stranger to assist you in making a transaction, even if you have trouble or your card gets stuck. When your transaction is complete, put your card, money and receipt away and immediately leave the area. Never count your money while at the ATM.
Block the view of others when using the ATM. Stand between the ATM and anyone waiting to use the terminal. Shield the keypad as necessary when entering your PIN and transaction amount.
If you see anyone or anything suspicious, cancel your transaction and leave the area at once. If anyone follows you, go immediately to a crowded, well-lit area and call the police.
Look for possible fraudulent devices attached to the ATM. If the ATM appears to have any attachment or alterations to the card slot or keypad, do not use the ATM.
- Never lend a credit card to anyone else.
- If you move, notify your credit card issuers in advance of your change of address.
