Credit Card Fraud Protection-Identity Theft

Identity theft is when somebody steals your personal data without your permission or knowledge. This is usually so that they can use your credit card for fraudulent activity, like buying products or services in your name. If undetected they can rack up a large amount of bills and cause your credit history to plummet.

Nobody is safe from this type of Identity theft  but Students are particularly vulnerable. This is because their records are easier to obtain and also many students do not take time to check on their finances. Most students also receive credit card applications in the mail.

Here are the common ways this can happen:

• An actual theft-you get your purse or wallet snatched
• People going through the dumpster near a business or even your garbage
• False emails asking for personal information.
• Watching you when you use a computor in a public place, or listening to a phone call when you have to give personal or credit card information.

Have a care when doing these transactions so that you can protect yourself from credit card fraud and identity theft:

• Online banking and purchases
• Throwing away preprinted credit card applications-these should always be destroyed before throwing away.
• Personal information that is stored on your computer
• Using mobile phones.
• When you use your Social Security number as identification..

The best way to protect yourself against Identity theft and credit card fraud is to keep a very good watch on all your financial activities. Check your statements carefully and if you have any doubt on any charge report it to your bank as soon as you can. Caught early you have a chance the bank can reverse the charge but if you wait longer than 30 days-60 days they usually cannot help you. With a little care you can avoid a lot of problems and save yourself a considerable amount of money.

Online Fraud Protection

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