As hackers, thieves and cyber criminals continue to get savvier debit and credit card fraud continues to rise – you, however, have the power to stop them in their tracks. Check out these 3 helpful tips on how to avoid debit and credit card fraud:
Avoiding Debit and Credit Card Fraud Tip #1:
Always be on the lookout for skimming devices, which are designed to look like card slots at ATMs and gas pumps. These devices are temporarily secured over the existing card slot , many times with tape, to read your data and steal your information. If the ATM or gas pump looks like it has been tampered with or appears suspicious, go elsewhere to complete your transaction.
Bonus Tip: Take the extra step of concealing your data by covering the keypad with your free hand while typing in your PIN. Usually the skimming device is used with a hidden camera nearby to record your PIN as it is entered.
Avoiding Debit and Credit Card Fraud Tip #2:
Keep an eye on the whereabouts of your card when others have it, such as in the check out line, at restaurants, salons and other venues where you may not be the one swiping it.
Avoiding Debit and Credit Card Fraud Tip #3:
Protect yourself with all of the debit and credit card fraud protection features DuPage Credit Union offers. It’s as easy as:
- Setting up Transaction Alerts to notify you each time your credit card has been used
- Selecting “Credit” over Debit at the check out counter to protect yourself with Visa’s Zero Liability Policy
- Activating Verified by Visa on all of your cards
- Notifying the Credit Union when you travel out of state
Also make it a habit to monitor your accounts in Online Banking or with our free Mobile Banking App to watch for suspicious activity. If you suspect debit or credit card fraud has occurred, please contact us at 800-323-2611 immediately.
Do you have any tips on how to avoid credit card fraud? If so, please share below: