Suggestions when sliding
The Better Business Bureau offers the following tips for consumers using credit or debit cards: Block any view of card reader keypads when you enter your PIN number. Also be on the lookout for false keypad overlays which can capture your personal information. If a keypad seems suspicious, cancel your purchase. Some card skimmers look and feel like readers. But they’re often placed over legitimate card readers and can be moved if wiggled. If a card reader looks different, check it out and see if it’s easily removed. Also beware of new or unusual signage asking for additional card slides or personal information. When possible, avoid ATMs in dimly-lit or low-trafficked areas. The BBB suggests using bank ATMs whenever possible over stand-alone ATMs in public places.It’s easy to miss a few small fraudulent charges if you aren’t careful. Regularly read through credit and debit card statements and report any activity you don’t recognize.If anyone near a gas pump or ATM offers to help you use your card, decline and leave. If you feel uncomfortable with the individual, get somewhere safe and contact authorities.If you see any suspicious or fraudulent activity on your bank statement, report it immediately. The quicker fraud charges are reported, the quicker banks and card companies can correct the problem, reimburse your money and issue a new card.
Myths and misinformation abound when it comes to credit card safety and security. The prevalence of credit card crime (nearly 32 million U.S. cardholders had information stolen in 2014, according to CreditCards.com) has also given rise to widespread fear of fraud or theft.
But experts urge consumers to to be aware of the facts and take proactive steps when it comes to security, instead of drowning in the stories of data breaches and theft.
Jim Winsett, president at the Better Business Bureau in Chattanooga, said recently there are simple and easy steps cardholders can and should take to safeguard their own accounts.
“We need to have some level of awareness of any financial transaction that we’re making today,” he said.