How to Prevent Credit Card Fraud and Identity Theft
Do you have the knowledge to help prevent credit card theft?
Unfortunately, many of us do not, which therefore leaves us quite vulnerable to a credit card thief. It is important to understand that credit card thieves are constantly finding new ways to steal other individuals’ credit card numbers and identity. Although we can’t always protect ourselves from credit card thieves 100 percent of the time, there are many things that we can do to help ourselves from becoming an easy target:
- Don’t let a clerk walk away from you when you are making a retail purchase. If your credit card is out of sight it can spell trouble in terms of credit card fraud and identity theft. If possible, request that the clerk remain at the counter with your credit card at all times.
- Never give out your credit card information over the phone unless you have initiated the phone call and you have researched the company’s credibility. Remember: a company will never, ever initiate a phone call and ask for any of your personal information, including credit card numbers.
- Never give out your personal information or credit card information through an email. And never, ever provide information of this kind if a company solicits you by email claiming to be your bank or credit card company.
- Never give out your credit card information on a website that isn’t secure, or one that you don’t fully trust. It is best to always shop with trusted retailers on the Internet and to make sure that your computer’s antivirus and firewall protection are comprehensive and up to date.
- Invest in a good shredder and take the time to shred all of your personal documents, including credit card statements and credit card offers.
- Don’t carry around a wallet full of credit cards. Instead, carry only the credit cards that you will need and keep the rest at home.
- Check your credit card statement carefully and immediately report any activity that you don’t immediately recognize. Remember: many credit card thieves will charge only small purchases so that many credit card customers won’t catch them!
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