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Below, you'll find
extensive information on leading credit card fraud articles and
products to
help you on your way to success.
Preventative Measures For Credit
Card Fraud?
If you've ever been the victim of credit card fraud, then you know just
how traumatic it can be. What's more, if not detected early enough, it
could leave bad marks on your credit report that could haunt you for
years. The most commonly thought of credit card fraud is when your
wallet or purse is stolen, and the thief uses your credit cards to make
unauthorized purchases. But, with the rate of online buying growing at
an amazing rate, another form of credit card fraud—known as
misappropriation—is spreading like wildfire. All that a thief needs to
create havoc on your credit life is your credit card number—not your
actual card. Here are a few ways that this type of theft can happen:*
One day you get a phone call, and the person on the other end of the
line tells you that they have a special offer—usually good for only a
day or so—and that you simply need to provide them with your credit
card number to make a purchase. The solution? Don't ever give out your
credit card number to anyone who calls you.
Only provide it if you have called
the company to place an order, and you are positive that it is a
well-established reputable business.* You are shocked to find that
someone has gone through the bags of trash that you set outdoors for
the early morning trash pick-up. A few days later when you receive your
credit card statement, there are dozens of unauthorized charges. The
solution? Always tear up your credit card receipts and bank statements
before putting them in the trash. Many thieves go through unguarded
trash bags specifically looking for these papers.* You go out to eat in
a restaurant and pay the bill with your credit card. On your next
credit card statement, you notice that there are unauthorized charges
that started the same day as your restaurant meal.
It turns out that the waiter made an
extra imprint of your card when
he rung up your bill, and then used
the number to go shopping. The solution? Many restaurants have placed
their credit card processing centers in plain view of the customer's
sight to combat this problem. If not, you could follow the waiter to
the charge station, and watch him throughout the process. It's also
important to make sure that they know that they are being watched. So,
what are some other measures that you can take to make sure you aren't
a victim of credit card fraud? Here are a few suggestions.* If
possible, it's a good idea to carry your credit cards and other bank
information somewhere other than your wallet or purse. That way, if a
thief nabs it, you will be out only your cash—not your credit cards.*
It's also smart to only take with you the credit card that you intend
to use that day—leave the others at home.* Be sure to have a list in a
safe place that lists all of your credit cards, the numbers and contact
information of the issuing company.
That way, if you are unlucky enough
to lose them, you'll have the information necessary to contact them as
soon as you notice the theft.* Never sign a blank receipt, and always
be sure to cross out blank lines. For example, if you bought something
that didn't require a tip, cross out the tip line so nobody can add to
it later.* If you buying online make sure that you do so via a secure
site.* If you move, report your new address to your credit card issuer
immediately. Some thieves look for moves, and then watch the mailbox of
the old house, hoping that they can intercept a credit card
statement.By following the above suggestions, you will greatly reduce
your chances of becoming a victim of credit card fraud!.
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