In most cases, issuers of US credit cards are on the up and up. Typically, people secure a credit card from any of the reputable credit card companies or through their own bank or credit union. However, some companies are dishonest and as a result, they end up defrauding innocent people. Obviously, when facing a scam involving a US credit card, there is risk of your credit being ruined, as well as you being taken for a lot of money.
Because credit card fraud is on the rise in this country, we wanted to provide you with some important information so you never find yourself trapped. Even so, as the number of credit card issuers taking advantage of people increases, new technology is developed, securing measures implemented, and the public educated more. It is essential for any credit cardholder to understand what to look for so it would be much easier to avoid being scammed with a US credit card.
Although some fraud with US credit cards still occurs in person, the majority of fraudulent acts are from internet or cell phone transactions. Interestingly, scams via cell phones are actually more frequent than scams online. Because of this, consider asking your phone carrier about the type of security your phone offers. The following are some of the best ways you can stay out of a mess such as this and while some might seem obvious, they are still worth presenting.
• The most important thing is for you to use common sense. This means if making a purchase using a US credit card with your phone, do it in private. Even online transactions should be done away from crowds. You would be amazed at the number of people that purchase items in busy places like airports, keying in or stating numbers within eye or ear shot of viewers. Therefore, always be aware of your surroundings if you plan to make a purchase using your credit card with your computer or cell phone.
• Regardless of how convincing the individual might be, or the company being represented, NEVER give out any personal or financial information online, via your cell phone, or on the phone. Even if the person claims to be from your bank or credit union and the calls sounds legitimate, no real financial company would ask for your credit card information in this manner.
• Many online scams appear so legitimate people are fooled all the time. For instance, if you shop on eBay, you could easily receive an email that states it is from the eBay team. They state your account has been compromised and to provide immediate security, they need you to click on the provided link where you would enter your credit card number, expiration date, and security code. Again, to some people this would be an obvious red flag but millions of people have lost significant money thinking they are doing the right thing.
• When shopping online, only make online purchases with your US credit card if the site is secure. You can determine this in one of two ways. The first would be the URL address. Unless the website starts with https://, it would not be a secured website. Therefore, you should never make a credit card purchase through this site. Second, you would see a logo on the home page from the company providing security. This might be Verisign or some other icon.
• The minute you receive your new credit card, sign it. If you forgot to sign and someone were able to get hold of the actual card, he or she could easily sign your name, and when presented for purchase, the transaction would go through – no questions asked.
• You should never throw your credit card receipts in the trash or leave them lying around. Even though these receipts do not include all the numbers of the credit card, criminals have tons of time on their hands and piecing together the missing information is what they do best.
• The PIN used for your US credit card should never be written down. This three-digit number should be memorized instead. Having the number in your purse or wallet with the card is asking for trouble.
• While not as common, credit card scammers stoop as low as putting fake cameras and other devices on ATMs. Therefore, when using an ATM for a cash withdrawal, if you notice anything out of place or odd around the actual camera area, we suggest you use a different ATM and notify the bank or credit union immediately.
• Finally, if your US credit card were lost or stolen, report it right away. It is common for a lost or stolen credit card to be used within minutes of being found or taken so you need to notify the issuing company ASAP.
No related posts.