Phyllis Shallman – Four Ways To Fend Off Credit Card Fraud

In 2019, 14.4 million people were victims of identity theft.¹

The internet has made it possible for someone to steal personal information and commit credit card fraud from the comfort of their own home. Being a victim of credit card fraud can seriously impact your financial well-being by decreasing your credit score and sinking you deep into debt. Repairing the damage can be stressful and time-consuming. Take a look at some tips on how you can fend off credit card fraud and stay safe online.

Don’t give your credit card number to anyone who calls you on the phone. Hang up and call their customer service line directly. Unless you can verify that you’re speaking with a legitimate institution, keep your card information to yourself. The same is true for emails, sketchy websites and landing pages, and social media posts.

Avoid sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi. If you’re using a public Wi-Fi network, it’s possible that someone could be eavesdropping on your information. That’s because public internet is relatively insecure—hackers have far easier access to your passwords and account information in a coffee shop than in your workplace. It’s always safer to check your bank accounts on a private Wi-Fi connection that’s password-protected.

Review transactions often, if not daily. Make it a habit to check your credit card account regularly to ensure all charges are accurate. If you notice any suspicious activity, whether it’s a store you’re not familiar with or a charge from a location in another state, contact your credit card customer service immediately.

Separate your cards from your wallet. If a thief nabs your purse or wallet, will they have access to your credit cards? Consider buying a separate wallet to carry your credit and debit cards. It’s a simple step that might protect your bank account from pickpockets and muggers. (Hint: Consider using a minimalist wallet for your cards. Carrying two bulky wallets would just be inconvenient!)

In conclusion, there are many ways to avoid credit card fraud. Try following the tips in this article, and stay vigilant about your account information.