How to Avoid Credit Card Fraud

The first thing you should do to avoid credit card fraud is make sure you do not leave your credit card in any unsafe location.  It’s best to store them in your purse or front pocket so it cannot be easily taken.  Also, only carry what you will be using that specific day, there is no need to unnecessarily increase the probability of something being taken. 

Instead of throwing your bill statements in the garbage, shred all papers that have your CC#.  It is possible for the dumpster carriers to steal your number. 

Never sign blank receipts.  One surefire method to avoid credit card fraud is to validate the amount on your credit card before you sign it.  Write $0 if there are blanks on the receipt.  This prevents a cashier from writing any amount of money and charging it.

Another precaution to take would be, if you are dealing with credit card transfers over the phone, only give information to businesses you have called.  Credit card scammers will try and either call you asking for the number, or leave a message on your answering machine in hopes you will fall into a trap.  Be extra careful and only speak out your number to something you specifically initiated to obtain.

Stay cautious when online.  Scammers are just as prevalent in online websites.  Never click into suspicious e-mail’s of people pretending to be a CC company, bank, or any other business that you give away personal information.  Check to see if your web browser has an anti-phishing feature so you can add another layer of protection.  Phishers come from all over and it can be easy to fall into it if you are not careful.  Any legitimate website will have secure encryption.

         If you lose a credit card, report it ASAP.  If you wait too long, whoever stole your card will have a lot of time to steal your money.  Also, integrity could be lost with your company and you may end up having to pay unjust fraudulent credit card charges.        

         Last but not least, get in the habit of checking your statements each month to ensure you know exactly what is going on.  This will let you react right away if any suspicious charges come up.