Using Credit with Security in Mind

Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal information without your permission to commit fraud or other crimes. Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal information without your permission to commit fraud or other crimes. Here are some important things you can do to reduce your chances of becoming a victim:

Do More than Sign the Back of the Card

It has become commonplace for merchants to neglect actually comparing your signature to the back of your credit card. One way to protect yourself is to write on the signature line “ask for identification.” The merchant will have to ask for your driver’s license to confirm your identity.

Review Your Monthly Statement

Don’t assume that your monthly statement is accurate. Many cases of identity theft have gone undetected because a review of the statement was neglected. Compare your receipts with your monthly statements carefully every month. Notify the issuer immediately, if you notice discrepancies.

Precautions to Take When Ordering over the Phone

The most important point about placing a phone order is that you’re the one making the first contact. When you are solicited by a telemarketer, do you really know that it’s a legitimate offer? If you’re interested in a telemarketer’s offer, request ordering information to be mailed to you so that you can review its authenticity.

Keep Your PIN Number Secure

The first numbers a thief will try to access your account are your personal identification statistics such as your birthday, address, phone number or social security number. NEVER use these as your personal identification number (PIN). NEVER carry your PIN in writing; file it only in your memory!

Protect Your Account Numbers

A thief with access to one of your account numbers can do a lot of damage, especially over the phone. For this reason, it’s imperative that you destroy all evidence of your number when you discard documents. A paper shredder is perfect for this purpose. Never put your account number on your check, on the envelope or postcard.

Urgent Response to Lost/Stolen Cards

The sooner you respond when you’ve realized a card is lost or stolen the less damage will occur. Report the loss to the issuing company, as soon as possible. If the card has not been used, you will not be held for any unauthorized charges. If the card has been used, your liability is the first $50.  If the number is stolen but not the card itself, you are not responsible for charges.

Protect Yourself while Shopping Online

More people are enjoying the convenience and ease of shopping online. The basic rules of traditional shopping apply to internet shopping along with some additional ones. To have a safe and enjoyable shopping experience online consider the following:

• Your social security number or banking information should never be required to make a purchase.
• Make sure that the site is secure which is indicated at the bottom of your browser window by an unbroken key or padlock. This indicates that your credit card data is securely transmitted .
• Print or electronically save all records of your internet purchases.
• Change your passwords often and keep them private and secure offline.
• Understand all the merchant policies including delivery charges, returns and warranties.
• Honest and safe internet merchants will readily have contact information available including a physical address and phone number.