Many people find themselves victims of credit card fraud. Credit card fraud is on the rise due to bad economic conditions. Unfortunately, it costs consumers and credit card companies millions of dollars every year. Here are some ways to help to prevent credit card fraud.
Protect Your Computer
Computers are big targets for identity thieves and computer hackers. Every time that a person logs on to the Internet they are vulnerable to a computer attack where vital information can be stolen from them. Protective measures such as installing anti-virus protection, anti-spyware software, and anti-spam software should be taken. Clear your cookies and history after using your credit card for online purchases.
Do Not Use Credit Cards on Unsecured Websites
It is important for consumers to avoid using their credit cards for online purchases on websites that are unsecured. A person can identify safe websites by looking for https. This shows that the website is secure for online purchases. Always make sure that you only give your credit numbers to legitimate companies that will handle the information correctly.
Shred Documents with Personal Information on Them
It is important to not throw important financial documents away because they have personal information written on them. Some identity thieves rummage through trash cans and are able to steal financial statements and use the information to commit fraud. Shred all financial documents immediately before discarding them. Also, cut up your old credit cards after they have expired and remember to sign your new credit cards and put them safely in a wallet.
Do Not Give Out Your Credit Card Numbers
It is important to keep your credit card numbers confidential. If someone has these numbers then they can easily use them to shop online and make fraudulent purchases. Some identity thieves have managed to actually make duplicate credit cards with stolen credit card numbers so it is crucial to keep these numbers confidential.
Never Let Your Credit Cards Out of Your Sight
Many restaurants take a person's credit card and go to the register to process their transaction. Always pay for meals in cash and never allow your credit card to ever be taken out of your sight. Some people have been double charged or have become victims of identity theft after visiting restaurants so it pays to be as cautious as possible. Many merchants have had data security breaches so try to pay cash often to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.
Avoid Phishing Scams
Many people have had their credit card numbers stolen through phishing scams. Avoid these scams by knowing that no legitimate company will ever ask you for your credit card numbers by phone or email.
Keep Your PIN Number Safe
Always keep your PIN number safe when traveling abroad. Bring travelers checks or money when traveling abroad and try to avoid using the PIN number for your credit card in order to get cash from ATM's.
Get Credit Card Protection Insurance
Credit card protection insurance is offered by many credit card companies. It allows consumers to have protection in the event of credit card fraud. The consumer has absolutely no liability for fraudulent purchases that are made as long as they are reported immediately.
In conclusion, consumers need to have safeguards in place to combat credit card fraud. This type of fraud occurs every second in the world. Using these tips, consumers can help to protect themselves and their credit cards from people who want to steal the information.
Protect Your Computer
Computers are big targets for identity thieves and computer hackers. Every time that a person logs on to the Internet they are vulnerable to a computer attack where vital information can be stolen from them. Protective measures such as installing anti-virus protection, anti-spyware software, and anti-spam software should be taken. Clear your cookies and history after using your credit card for online purchases.
Do Not Use Credit Cards on Unsecured Websites
It is important for consumers to avoid using their credit cards for online purchases on websites that are unsecured. A person can identify safe websites by looking for https. This shows that the website is secure for online purchases. Always make sure that you only give your credit numbers to legitimate companies that will handle the information correctly.
Shred Documents with Personal Information on Them
It is important to not throw important financial documents away because they have personal information written on them. Some identity thieves rummage through trash cans and are able to steal financial statements and use the information to commit fraud. Shred all financial documents immediately before discarding them. Also, cut up your old credit cards after they have expired and remember to sign your new credit cards and put them safely in a wallet.
Do Not Give Out Your Credit Card Numbers
It is important to keep your credit card numbers confidential. If someone has these numbers then they can easily use them to shop online and make fraudulent purchases. Some identity thieves have managed to actually make duplicate credit cards with stolen credit card numbers so it is crucial to keep these numbers confidential.
Never Let Your Credit Cards Out of Your Sight
Many restaurants take a person's credit card and go to the register to process their transaction. Always pay for meals in cash and never allow your credit card to ever be taken out of your sight. Some people have been double charged or have become victims of identity theft after visiting restaurants so it pays to be as cautious as possible. Many merchants have had data security breaches so try to pay cash often to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.
Avoid Phishing Scams
Many people have had their credit card numbers stolen through phishing scams. Avoid these scams by knowing that no legitimate company will ever ask you for your credit card numbers by phone or email.
Keep Your PIN Number Safe
Always keep your PIN number safe when traveling abroad. Bring travelers checks or money when traveling abroad and try to avoid using the PIN number for your credit card in order to get cash from ATM's.
Get Credit Card Protection Insurance
Credit card protection insurance is offered by many credit card companies. It allows consumers to have protection in the event of credit card fraud. The consumer has absolutely no liability for fraudulent purchases that are made as long as they are reported immediately.
In conclusion, consumers need to have safeguards in place to combat credit card fraud. This type of fraud occurs every second in the world. Using these tips, consumers can help to protect themselves and their credit cards from people who want to steal the information.