How To Avoid Getting Your Credit Card Info Stolen
Using your card or tapping your phone to pay has become completely normal. In the United States, about 2 out of 3 credit card holders have experienced fraud or will at some point. Even though banks added safety features like chips in 2015, scammers still find ways around them. If you want to be the one out of three people who does not get their credit card info stolen, here are a few steps you can take to stay protected.
Be Careful with Phone Payments
One of the easiest ways for thieves to get your information is through phone payments. Giving your card number, expiration date, and CVV over the phone puts you at risk. It might be for something as simple as ordering food or paying for a small service. The problem is you never know who is on the other end. One dishonest person can write down your information and use it later. Even though it may seem like an overreaction, it is better to be safe. Use official apps or websites when possible. These are usually more secure and do not rely on reading card details out loud to a stranger.
Use Mobile Payments Like Apple Pay
Using contactless payments such as Apple Pay or Venmo adds an extra layer of protection. When you swipe a card or hand it to someone, your card number is visible. But with mobile payment, your actual number is never shared. Apple Pay, for example, uses your face or fingerprint to confirm purchases. You also get to see the payment happen right in front of you. This helps you stay in control. At restaurants, try to pay using your phone so your card never leaves your hand. Gas stations are another risky spot. Some scammers use card skimmers to steal info at the pump. By using contactless payments, you can avoid putting your card into a slot that might be compromised.
Watch Your Accounts and Set Up Alerts
Keeping an eye on your bank account is one of the best ways to catch fraud early. Go through your transactions often and look for anything unfamiliar. Scammers usually test a card with small charges first to see if it works. If those go unnoticed, they will try to spend more. If you notice something that does not look right, call your bank right away and report it. You can also sign up for fraud alerts. These send you a message if something unusual is happening with your account. Many banks offer this service for free and it helps you catch problems before they get worse.
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