7 Warnings St Louis Mortgage Consumers Must Know To Avoid Credit And Debit Card Scam
St Louis mortgage consumers are frequently bombarded with safety tips on how to protect the use of our credit cards and now we use debit cards when we make transactions in person, on the phone or the web.
However, one may be caught completely off guard to know that identity theft can arise to you even when you still hold your credit card or debt card in your hand.
Most people have never heard of the word "skimming." This new wave of crime utilizes modern technological advances where a thief can much more easily steal your credit card information.
St Louis finance experts are claiming that credit and debt card skimming is now getting to be an epidemic while becoming more newsworthy because of recent skimming incidents like those at Bank of America.
Retails stores that take credit and debit cards such as cafes, 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, scan it through a small hand held electronic device and in seconds has all your financial details that is kept on your card.
Criminals are also going for ATMs now. By using cameras or observing you as you key in your 4 digit pin code, these heartless white collar thieves can now drain your bank.
So, here are 7 warnings 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 information as you will need this to claim deceitful charges.
2. While you are considering it, go and write down all customer service contact numbers found on the rear of your cards and keep this list in a secured place. Oh, and check your monthly bank statement very carefully.
3. If an ATM is in bad shape or run down, walk, better yet run away! A sign of a dirty machine may mean that it is not working or may be a criminal clone trying to steal your information.
4. Another point that most consumers forget about is informing your credit card company when you go on travel and the destination of your travels. They can decline any doubtful charges much faster when they have this information.
5. If you notice that the front of an ATM machine looks damaged or loose, this may be an indication that someone has attached a skimming machine.
6. If there are suspicious persons casing the ATM, they possibly want your cash or are wanting to observe you type your PIN number. If you ever lose your card in an ATM machine, just leave. It may be best to politely turn down assistance from someone who may have been watching you. You can always call your bank and obtain a new card.
7. Cover the pin pad using your other hand when keying in your PIN number.
Another good piece of suggestion that was mentioned above is to confirm your balance on a periodic basis when your statement comes.
For those who use their debit cards more often should also know that the laws protecting credit card holders do not apply to debit card purchases. So, you are more secure using a credit card.
St Louis finance analysts recommend always notify your bank or credit card firm within two days of misplacing your cards. This may help restrict your losses to $50. The worst thing you can do is delay this needed phone call. You may end up going through greater financial losses by waiting.
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