Security

Credit card fraud

Payment card fraud is done in many ways. Criminals can steal the cards themselves, make false impressions, use the number in unauthorized ways and a host of other scenarios. Experts say the only way to combat the problem is to keep a watch on your card at all times. Just like you would lock your house or car door, treat your credit and debit card as a valuable asset. The good news is that individuals don't have to pay for unauthorized purchases on their accounts. The industry has developed a zero liability policy to protect cardholders. Even though you aren't financially liable for fraudulent purchases, you still have the inconvenience of having to cancel and change your card accounts. Financial institutions are continually working on new technologies to stay ahead of the criminals and protect consumers. If your card is lost or stolen or you think you're a victim of fraud, notify your issuing financial institution(s) immediately. If you don't have or know the telephone number, Visa offers a toll-free number that can assist, 1-800-VISA-911

How you can prevent fraud

• Always check your account statement carefully. Monitor your accounts in real time on the Internet - many financial institutions offer Internet viewing of your account.
• Keep a record of your credit and debit card account numbers and telephone numbers so that if you lose your cards, you can quickly inform your financial institution(s). Some people find it helpful to make photocopies of their cards and keep in a safe place at home.

Take all card receipts and carbons with you, especially from ATMs, supermarkets, and self-service gas pumps.

• Don't lend your cards to others or leave it behind as a "security deposit."
• Make sure you know who has access to your cards. (If they are used without your knowledge, you may still have to pay.)
• Never write your PIN number on a credit or debit card or attach it with a sticky note.
• Be particularly careful when in airports or other public places where you might provide your credit or debit card number out loud. (This is also true for phone cards). Crooks have made a living "hanging out" at busy terminals for those phone cards or any other numbers they can locate from travel weary consumers.
• Never give your account number or other personal information such as your Social Security number, to anyone who calls you on the phone or contacts you over the Internet unless you've initiated the correspondence and/or are making a purchase. Do not print or write your Social Security number or your credit or debit card account number on checks.