Credit Card Fraud Prevention
Credit card fraud generally occurs when cards or card numbers are compromised. By following these simple guidelines your potential for loss can be minimized.
Tips for protecting yourself against credit card fraud:
- Never give out your credit card information to someone you do not know.
- Keep a list of all your credit cards including the account number and phone number to the issuing company and keep this list in a secure place.
- Review your credit card statement(s) as soon as possible. Match charges with your receipts to ensure all charges are yours and are for the correct amount. Contact your financial institution immediately should you find unauthorized charges or other issues.
- Always sign the back of a new credit card immediately.
- When making a purchase with a credit card, make sure you get the card back and the receipt. Verify the receipt for accuracy.
- When using a credit card at a restaurant, make sure that all blank lines (example: the tip section) are filled in so that no one can change the final amount.
- Never sign blank credit card receipts.
- Carry only the cards that you need at the time.
- If you use your credit card often to make daily and/or online purchases - it might be a good idea to have two credit cards; one with a higher balance, that you keep at home, for emergencies and a low-limit credit card to make daily and online purchases.
- When sites ask you to save your credit card information for future purchases...don't. If someone gains access to your computer or phone, they could make purchases using your saved card info.
- Do not share the PIN for the account on the card with anyone. Also, use an unfamiliar number as your PIN. Avoid using phone numbers or birthdays.
