Many thieves are favoring debit card fraud over credit card fraud because there are fewer protections in place and it is easier to get cash from the account and vanish. Learn a few tips and tricks to make yourself less likely to be a target of debit card fraud.
Don't leave a paper trail for thieves to find. A common trick for debit card fraudsters is to go through the trash of a resident or a business looking for receipts or other paperwork with card numbers on it. Also, avoid leaving important financial paperwork loose on your desk at home or work where someone could see the debit card numbers and copy them down.
Keep your card in sight at all times. Another common way for thieves to get debit card numbers is to copy the card number. Whether it is a clerk making an extra card imprint for later use, a waiter at a restaurant copying the card number down and pocketing it or any other situation where you give your card to someone to take to the register, when your card is not in sight, you run the risk of being a victim of debit card fraud.
Many people choose to keep their debit card separate from their wallet or purse, in case those get stolen or lost. It's also a good idea to keep the card number, expiration date and company phone number listed in a separate place at home so that in the event the cards are stolen or lost, you can still have the information on them.
If you have lost your debit card or believe it has been stolen, call your bank immediately to limit your liability for unauthorized charges, usually $50. However, if you fail to notify your bank within two business days, you may have to face a liability limit if $500 or more. Check your billing statements as soon as you get them and compare them to your monthly purchases to discover any discrepancies.
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 | If you're a victim of identity theft, or if your personal data has been exposed, you need to take action immediately. By contacting your lenders swiftly and documenting every move you make, you'll contain the damage and make it easier to fix problems. |
You can take a few simple precautions that can help you guard your online privacy. Because few laws reach into this area, you'll have to take the initiative. |
Avoid internet identity theft with these ten tips. |
