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Credit Card Scams How To Protect Yourself


Credit cards are an important asset to protect. If you haven't noticed or not aware, the United States is slowing catching up to Europe with the use of credit cards vs checks. It more convenient and it helps the environment.

However, with the increased use of a credit card, comes the scammer. The scammer is
finding new and inventive ways to help you to unwittingly part with your money. Below are some ways in which you can protect yourself and your credit card from possible scammers.

1. If you travel, it is always wise to Xerox the contents that you have in your wallet. Not the money, just the credit cards and license, both sides. If you travel overseas, it wise to Xerox your passport. That will help against fraud if they get a hold of your name, address, social security number, credit card, etc.


2. Keep an eye on your credit card-and make sure that you get it back as quickly as possible. Why? They may be taking down your credit card information.

3. Be careful who you give your credit card information too. For example: If you're in a hotel, and you receive a call stating it is the front desk calling and they need to verify your credit card. Do not give them the credit card number-state you will go down to the
front desk to take care of the problem. A red flag should instantly go up. Why would they ask for the information after you have just given them a short time ago? It's probably a scam.

4. Never give you account number over the phone unless you are the one that has initiated the call and you know that the company is reputable.

5. Remember, legitimate companies do not call to ask for a credit card number over the phone. If there is a problem with your credit card and they want you to verify the number, state that you will call the 800 number directly regarding the credit card before releasing any information.

Note: a new scam is hitting the phones-the scammer is requesting your three digit security number on the back of your card. This is verification that you hold the card. Do not give it out.

How it goes down. The caller will state they are from say VISA and they want to verify some information because it looks like there was some suspicious activity on your account. They are not after your account number. Why? They already have it. But they need the three digit number on the back of your credit card to complete any transactions
online. If anyone requests information about your account number that should be a red flag. The credit card company never asks for information about your card. Why? They already have the information.

6. Never provide credit card information on a website that is not secure. 

7. Shred all credit card applications you receive.

8. Never write your PIN on your credit card. If they steal the card, you have just given them all the information they need to take money from the account.

9. Never, just blindly pay your credit card bill. It is important that you read your credit card bill to look for bogus charges.

If you find you have an unauthorized charge on your account you will need to contact the credit card fraud department to get them removed from your account. They will send you a form that you must complete-stating that those charges were not authorized by you. This
form protects you from getting any bad rating from the Credit Bureau.

If the problem persists, you will need a new credit card number.

10. Never use credit card checks to make simple transactions. It has all your information on the check-easy access for a scammer.

To conclude, through these are simple tips, these tips can help protect you from unwanted fraudulent activity on your credit cards. Staying informed is the best advantage you have to being safe.

About the Author:

Vickie J Scanlon  Visit her site at: http://www.myaffiliateplace.biz for  security utilities, articles, ebooks, how to affiliate info, where to report your scams, for the affiliate/internet marketer

Please be aware of how credit cards and debit cards are handled if you have a cause of fraud. With a credit credit you have a 6 months window, with a debit card you only have 60 days.

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