Fraud Center  Protect Your Debit & Credit Card Information

Protect Your Debit & Credit Card Information

Here are some tips to help protect yourself from debit and credit card fraud.

Do:

• Sign your cards as soon as they arrive
• Carry your cards separately from your wallet, in a zippered compartment, a
  business card holder, or another small pouch
• Keep a record of your account numbers, their expiration dates, and the phone
  number and address of each company in a secure place
• Keep an eye on your card during the transaction, and get it back as quickly as
  possible
• Void incorrect receipts
• Destroy carbons
• Save receipts to compare with billing statements
• Open bills promptly and reconcile accounts monthly, just as you would your
  checking account
• Report any questionable charges promptly and in writing to the card issuer
• Notify card companies in advance of a change in address
• Always safeguard your card's info, including the PIN
• If you lose your card, report it immediately

Don't:

• Lend your card(s) to anyone
• Give out your PIN
• Leave cards or receipts lying around
• Sign a blank receipt. When you sign a receipt, draw a line through any blank
  spaces above the total
• Write your account number on a postcard or the outside of an envelope
• Give out your account number over the phone unless you're making the call to a
  company you know is reputable. If you have questions about a company, check it
  out with your local consumer protection office or Better Business Bureau

For more information on credit card fraud, go to www.ftc.gov.