7 Points St Louis Mortgage Consumers Must Be Aware To Avoid Credit And Debit Card Theft
St Louis mortgage consumers are frequently bombarded with safety tips on how to safeguard the use of our credit cards and now we use debit cards when we make purchases in person, on the phone or the web.
However, one may be caught totally off guard to know that identity theft can happen to you even when you still have your credit card or debt card in your control.
Most consumers have never heard of the word "skimming." This new wave of offense utilizes modern technological advances where a thief can much more easily get your credit card information.
St Louis finance experts are pointing out that credit and debt card skimming is now becoming an epidemic while becoming more newsworthy as a result of recent skimming incidents like those at Bank of America.
Retails stores that accept credit and debit cards such as restaurants, bars, gas stations and ATMs are turning out to be more susceptible targets for skimming.
All a thief has to do is get hold of your credit or debt card, read it through a small hand held electronic gadget and in seconds has all your financial particulars that is stored on your card.
Criminals are also aiming at ATMs now. By using cameras or observing you as you key in your 4 digit pin code, these heartless white collar thieves can now suck your bank dry.
So, here are 7 tips to help keep your financial information private and safe:
1. Do not forget to always keep your bank or credit card company updated on your personal data as you will need this to claim fraud charges.
2. While you are considering it, go and write down all customer service telephone numbers found on the backside of your cards and keep this list in a secured place. Oh, and examine your monthly bank statement very carefully.
3. If an ATM is in bad shape or dilapidated, walk, better yet run away! A sign of a dirty machine may mean that it is not working or may be a criminal clone waiting to steal your information.
4. Another point that most consumers forget about is notifying your credit card company when you go on holiday and the destination of your travels. They can decline any doubtful charges much faster when they have this details.
5. If you observe that the front of an ATM machine looks damaged or loose, this may be a sign that someone has attached a skimming device.
6. If there are suspicious individuals casing the ATM, they possibly want your cash or are wanting to observe you type your PIN number. If you at any time lose your card in an ATM machine, just leave. It may be best to graciously turn down help from someone who may have been observing you. You can always call your bank and get a new card.
7. Cover the pin pad with your other hand when putting in your PIN number.
Another good piece of suggestion that was mentioned above is to verify your balance on a frequent basis when your statement comes.
For those who use their debit cards more regularly should also know that the laws safeguarding credit card holders do not involve debit card purchases. So, you are more protected using a credit card.
St Louis finance analysts advice always notify your bank or credit card firm within two days of misplacing your cards. This may help limit your losses to $50. The worst thing you can do is delay this needed phone call. You may end up putting up with greater financial losses by waiting.