Be Aware of New Credit Card Scams
Posted on 12/21/2009 - Filed under Credit Card Theft
Credit card thieves are always looking for new ways to take advantage of credit cardholders. And one of the latest approaches they’re taking is to ask you for the security code on your card. The security code is a three-digit number on the back of your card. This scam usually occurs if someone has already stolen your credit card information, but still needs the security code to start using it.
The tricky part is that when scammers call you, they may sound totally believable. They might tell you they’re from the credit card company, and even have your credit card number. All you have to do is give the three-digit code you find on the back.
This number was created to help prevent fraud, so identity thieves naturally want it. In order to make sure your credit card is safe, follow these precautions:
Never give your number out over the phone. If whoever is calling is really a legal entity, they will understand. Anytime you’re asked for personal information, check to see if you really should give it out. And when in doubt, the best response is “no.”
The same is true for email. There are so many phishing scams out there today. Phishing happens when a seemingly legitimate company asks you to verify information or hand over some personal data. Again, the best approach with this is to not do it.
Call the company if you suspect anything. This is true for many cases, and especially for credit card fraud. The sooner you report it, the easier it will be to resolve. Then your life, and your credit card, can continue on as normal.
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Online Shopping Tips for Credit Cards
Posted on 11/21/2009 - Filed under Credit Card Theft
Shopping for the holidays can be done from the comfort of your own home, which is great when it’s cold outside and you’re short on time. It’s not great, however, when your credit card information gets stolen or your account gets hacked into. Here’s what to do to make your online shopping experience a good one this year:
Make a strong password. If you sign up for accounts on certain websites, you will sometimes find a meter than measures the strength of your password. Make sure yours is strong. Then when you access the account and put in your credit card information, it will be that much safer.
Stick with secure sites. If you’re planning to do most of your shopping on big sites, there is little reason to worry about security. Valid websites use the latest security technology possible to keep away thieves. If you’re not sure about the site, however, check before entering your credit card information. If it hasn’t been updated for awhile or looks deceptive, stay away.
Always check your statements. If your card does get stolen for some reason, there may be strange activity that appears on your monthly statement. For anything that causes you to think there might be a problem, contact the company right away. You’ll be able to sort through the problem, and if there was fraudulent activity, you most likely won’t be held liable for it. So stay safe and enjoy your holiday shopping with credit cards.
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Protect your Credit Card While on the Road
Posted on 4/25/2009 - Filed under Credit Card Theft
If you’re heading out on vacation this summer, you may be afraid of problems with credit card theft. While news stories about stolen cards seem to abound, there is actually not much for you to worry about. By taking a number of steps, you can keep your credit card as safe as possible while on the road. Here’s what to do.
Always take your card with you. Do not leave your wallet or purse in the hotel room while you go out. Likewise, do not leave it in a car or anywhere else. By keeping it with you at all times, it is less likely to fall into the wrong hands.
Don’t swipe at suspicious locations. If you want to pay with a credit card at a place that does not make you feel comfortable, just say “no.” Pay with cash and save the card for another time, when you feel safe swiping it.
If in doubt, call the company. If you suspect that the card has been used without your knowledge, or if you can’t find it, call the company right away. They will be able to give you an update on the account’s activity, and answer any questions you might have.
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Three Ways to Keep your Credit Card Safe
Posted on 2/23/2009 - Filed under Credit Card Theft
Stories involving a credit card being stolen, pop up on almost a weekly basis. While it may sound alarming, the fact that credit cards do get stolen is really just a fact of life. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to try to prevent a case like this to come your way. Try these next time you need to use a credit card.
Always know where your card is. If you go out shopping or to a restaurant, never leave your card alone. If someone has access to your purse or wallet for even a few seconds, they can grab the card or get the numbers from it. So make sure you and your card stay tight while on the go.
Take just one. You may have a stash of credit cards, and that’s okay. But when you leave the house, only take the one or ones you know you will use. Leave the rest behind in a safe place.
Keep your distance. When swiping the card at a store, make sure that there is plenty of space between you and other shoppers. You don’t want to have anyone close enough to get a good look at your credit card. If you feel that someone is too close, ask them to move. If you don’t feel comfortable, go to a different store or report the suspect to the authorities at the store.
None of us can make ourselves completely foolproof when it comes to credit cards, but you can do things like the ones listed above to lower your chances of identity theft. If your card does get stolen, the credit card company will most likely help you cover any fraudulent charges and issue you another card. You can then work hard to protect the new one.
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What you Need to Know about Credit Cards and Identity Theft
Posted on 2/5/2009 - Filed under Credit Card Theft
Having someone else use your credit card number or account information is a scary thought…yet it happens to many of us. Up to nine million Americans are victims of identity theft every year.
The goods news is that in the case of credit cards, you are usually well protected. Most companies will only ask that you cover up to $50 for fraudulent charges. The card company will take care of the rest. It may take some time to sort things out, but in most cases, your credit score will not be affected.
If someone should steal the numbers from your card and make a new one, or simply take your card and use it, you can call the credit card company right away. The company representatives can cancel your account and help you set up a new one. Your next card will be sent to you through the mail, and you can start using it as soon as it arrives.
There is more good news to offer. If you pay your credit card online, there is little concern that your information will be stolen. This is because companies use the latest technology to keep your account secure. You could also consider checking your annual credit report to make sure it’s accurate.
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Avoid Credit Card Theft during the Holidays
Posted on 11/7/2008 - Filed under Credit Card Theft
If you’re like many Americans, you’re getting ready to pull out your wallet and start holiday shopping. And if you have credit cards, now may be a good time to use them. As you do so, you’ll want to take extra measures to keep your accounts secure.
Credit card fraud occurs year-round, but it always seems especially rampant when the holidays roll around. This may be simply due to the numbers – more people are out and about shopping, and many credit cards are being used. Thieves have more opportunities to steal numbers off of cards, or to take the actual card and start using it.
While no one can protect themselves 100 percent from credit card theft, there are a few things you can do. First and perhaps most importantly, don’t share your card with anyone else. Keep it in a safe place, and take it out only when you make a purchase.
If you shop online, check to see that the site you’re using is secure before you enter in your information. Look for signs of SSL technology or a small padlock on the screen to show that it is safe.
When you head to the store, only take out your card at the checkout. If anything happens that makes you feel your card may be in danger, report it to the security at the store right away. And if your card does end up lost or stolen, call your credit card company as soon as possible.
The good news is that most credit card companies do not charge customers for credit card fraud. Still, it’s best to keep careful track of your cards to avoid any unplanned holiday hassles.
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