You may have read some news recently
about problems with a major department store and a security breach with its
credit card data. If you want to avoid being the "target" of a credit
card data theft, you may want to pay attention to the scroll of helpful hints
below:
- Believe
it or not ... More credit cards thefts occur in the workplace than any
other location. It is not wise to leave your credit cards unattended --
even in the office.
- Keep
your PIN or security code hidden at all times. Memorize the PIN or keep it
stored in a place (such as your cell phone) this is invisible to anyone
else.
- Never
leave credit cards in a car. This is a very tempting target for thieves.
- Check
to see that the card is correct when the cashier hands it back to you. A
busy cashier may mistakenly switch cards.
- Always
keep your credit cards on you when traveling.
- A
high percentage of credit card fraud charges occur within a couple days
after a card is lost, so report a lost or stolen card ASAP.
- Slice
up and trash old and unwanted cards immediately.
- Sign
the back of your new card immediately.
- Keep
a list of all credit cards and the numbers. You will need to refer to the
list if your wallet or purse is lost and you need to replace all your
cards.
- Carefully review your monthly credit card statements and check for improper charges. If you find potentially false charges, contact the card company as quickly as possible.
- Avoid divulging your credit card number over the phone to anyone, unless you are 100 percent confident the company is reputable.
- Many consumers make online purchases. Check to see the website is secure before you provide credit card information.
- Be wary of multi-swipes. Sometimes a charge may go through twice if the cashier runs the card through more than once.
- Do not provide your credit card number while on your cell phone -- especially when you are in earshot of others who can potentially listen to your information.
- A safer alternative for online purchases are pre-paid credit cards, where funds are loaded onto the card in advance. If these cards are stolen, you are only on the hook for the amount of money you added to the card.
Hopefully, we will
not see many more major credit card breaches. Meanwhile, be cautious and adhere
to these and other rules to protect your credit card data.
Keep your PIN or security code hidden at all times. Memorize the PIN or keep it stored in a place (such as your cell phone) this is invisible to anyone else. credit card processing high risk
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