Save your identity from debit card fraudulence

Follow these recommendations to develop good habits to keep funds secure.

10:24 28 May 2013

With the recent news of someone committing tremendous amount of benefits fraud, we may naturally wonder about the other types of fraud that are often discussed. Credit card and debit card fraud are both something that we need to consider if we want to keep our finances safe and sound. Here are a few ways to ensure that you can avoid being a victim of fraud, or at least catch it soon enough to minimize the devastating effects.

 

• Bills/Statements—it’s easy, especially with electronic billing to overlook those credit card bills, or debit card statements. This is really your first notification if there is something wrong though, so take the few minutes needed to review your bills.

 

• Online—don’t save your credit card or debit card numbers on your computer for shopping purposes. After you do shop online, make sure to completely log out of the page and close the browser for some added protection.

 

• Going out—if you are out and about using your credit card or debit card, make sure you can see your card at all times. If you see anyone run your card through a handheld device or pull out their phone, it might be a good idea to report the suspicious activity to your credit card company and see what they recommend.

 

• Protection—in the event that your credit card number, or debit card number, has been compromised, you have a certain amount of protection from the company itself typically, but there are other companies who specialize in keeping your identity safe, which may include credit card fraud.

 

• Reporting—if you misplace your credit card or debit card and aren’t sure if it is in the house or somewhere else, don’t delay. It is worth ensuring that your funds are secure, so report any lost or stolen card immediately.