Useful Tips On Avoiding Credit
and Charge Card Fraud
by: John
Mussi
Credit
and charge card fraud costs cardholders and issuers
hundreds of millions of dollars each year.
While theft is the most obvious form of fraud, it can
occur in other ways. For example, someone may use
your card number without your knowledge.
It's not always
possible to prevent credit or charge card fraud from
happening. But there are a few steps you can take to
make it more difficult for a crook to capture your
card or card numbers and minimize the possibility.
Do:
Sign your cards
as soon as they arrive.
Carry your
cards separately from your wallet, in a zippered
compartment, a business card holder, or another small
pouch.
Keep a record
of your account numbers, their expiration dates, and
the phone number and address of each company in a
secure place.
Keep an eye on
your card during the transaction, and get it back as
quickly as possible.
Void incorrect
receipts.
Destroy
carbons.
Save receipts
to compare with billing statements.
Open bills
promptly and reconcile accounts monthly, just as you
would your checking account.
Report any
questionable charges promptly to the card issuer.
Notify card
companies in advance of a change in address.
Don't:
- Lend your
card(s) to anyone.
- Leave cards
or receipts lying around.
- Sign a blank
receipt. When you sign a receipt, draw a line through
any blank spaces above the total.
- Write your
account number on a postcard or the outside of an
envelope.
- Give out your
account number over the phone unless you're making
the call to a company you know is reputable.
- Reporting
Losses and Fraud If you lose your credit or charge
cards or if you realize they've been lost or stolen,
immediately call the issuer(s). Many companies have
toll-free numbers and 24-hour service to deal with
such emergencies.
About The
Author
John Mussi is
the founder of Direct Online Loans who help UK
homeowners find the best available online secured
loan via the http://www.directonlineloans.co.uk website. To find a loan
that best suits your needs visit http://www.directonlineloans.co.uk
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