If you didn't have to worry about your credit card information getting into the wrong hands, that would be the perfect world when it comes to credit cards. But the truth is that credit card fraud is a real problem. By taking a few easy steps, you can avoid becoming a statistic.
Thieves are getting smarter, so you have to do what you need to do to beat them.
- You should always know where your cards are so they don't end up in the wrong hands. Statements that show your credit card information should be kept in a safe place, and if you need to throw them away, you should always shred them. Thieves have been known to go through someone's trash and steal personal documents. If your card number is plainly visible, it could be used to do something bad.
- You should always be careful about which websites you give your credit card number to when you buy something on the Internet. Make sure you only fill out forms with your card number on websites you know and trust. Don't put your number on websites you get to by clicking on links in emails. If it's a site you've bought from before, type the site's address into the address bar of your web browser. So, scammers who pretend to be real businesses won't be able to trick you into giving them your number.
"Phishing schemes" are what most people see when they go online these days. A con artist will send you an email that looks like it comes from a bank's website. In the email, they will say that they need your personal information to update their records. Sometimes, they will also say that fraud is on the rise and that you need to send them your personal information so that they can keep your online accounts safe. It's funny, isn't it? But don't let this trick work on you.
- If you want to make sure you're on a secure website, the address will always start with "https" instead of "http." That lets you know that the website you are doing business with is using encryption software to keep your credit card information safe.
- Look at your credit report regularly. By doing this, you can check your card to see if there are any strange charges or signs of credit card fraud. If you see charges that don't make sense, the first thing you should do is call your credit card company and report that your card has been stolen. Remember that you won't be responsible for the charges on your card if you call right away.
Staying aware of what your credit card is being used for is the best way to avoid being a victim of credit card fraud. That way, you have a good chance of not becoming a victim of credit card fraud.
