Ten Ways You Can
Protect Your Credit
1) Sign It
Ensure that you sign the back of your new credit card
once you receive it.
2) PIN
Never write down your PIN number in a purse or wallet —
memorize it or stash it in a safety deposit box or other safe
area. Make sure your PIN number isn’t something obvious like a
date of birth, address, or phone number.
3) Return It
Make sure merchants return your credit card after a
purchase. Don’t be in a hurry or let other distractions keep you
from getting your card back immediately.
4) Watch It
Never leave your credit cards unattended or in visible
sight of others. Remember, they are the same as cash.
5) Be Wary
Never give your account number over the phone unless
you’ve validated the company or individual you’re speaking with.
6) Check Purchases
Always verify receipts from purchases and make sure the
right amount has been charged. Take all copies of receipts and
carbons with you, especially ATM transactions.
7) Trash It
Dispose of receipts and old credit card statements
privately not publicly. Use a personal shredder or other device to
ensure your name and account number are unreadable.
8) Report It
Contact your creditors immediately if your credit cards
have been stolen or lost.
9) Record It
Make a list of your credit card account numbers and
telephone numbers of creditors in case your cards are stolen or
lost. Keep the list in a safe place.
10) Verify
Check your credit statement right away when it arrives.
Verify the amounts of purchases with sales receipts you’ve saved
for the month. Report any discrepancies to your creditors
immediately.
If you believe yourself to be a
victim of credit card fraud, get a copy of your credit report.
Call the fraud division of all three credit bureaus and have them
put a fraud alert on your file:
Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
Experian: 1-888-397-3742
Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289
The thief who has used your credit
card may try to get your credit report in order to use other
accounts of yours or to open new accounts in your name. A fraud
alert will prevent new credit accounts from being opened without
your express permission.
If the fraud was perpetrated as part of a business scam, contact
the National Fraud Information Center: 1-800-876-7060
Get
your credit report online right now – click here