Guard Your Credit Card!

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Never leave credit cards in a car. This is a very tempting target for thieves.
4. Check to see that the card is correct when the cashier hands it back to you. A busy cashier may mistakenly switch cards.
5. Always keep your credit cards on you when traveling.
6. 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.
7. Slice up and trash old and unwanted cards immediately.
8. Sign the back of your new card immediately.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. Avoid divulging your credit card number over the phone to anyone, unless you are 100 percent confident the company is reputable.
12. Many consumers make online purchases. Check to see the website is secure before you provide credit card information.
13. Be wary of multi-swipes. Sometimes a charge may go through twice if the cashier runs the card through more than once.
14. 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.
15. 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.

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