One of the most serious dangers of identity theft is fraudulent use of your credit card. By using your credit card number, someone who steals your identity can make purchases with your card, driving your balance up and potentially harming your credit score. There are several steps you can take to prevent fraudulent activity on your card and stop it if it does occur.
Instructions
- 1
Keep your credit card information to yourself. Never reveal your number, ATM PIN, or other information. According to the U.S. Public Interest Research Groups website, be especially careful with credit cards. Credit cards can be used with only a signature rather than requiring a PIN.
2Report lost or stolen cards to your creditor immediately and have the cards canceled. According to the Federal Trade Commission, you should report misplaced cards within two business days of discovering the loss.
3Keep your credit card purchase receipts in a safe location. Never discard receipts; your information can be found on purchase receipts.
4Never make purchases online unless the Website has a certificate of security from McAfee or a similar company.
5Save all email correspondence regarding online transactions. For extra security, print hard copies.
6Read your bill carefully each month and compare it to your purchase receipts to determine if fraudulent charges occurred.
7Notify your credit card company if you notice any unauthorized charges on your billing statement. Dispute the charges in writing and send it through certified mail to ensure proof of receipt. Include the item, vendor, date of purchase and amount of purchase in your letter. You must do this within 60 days of receiving the bill in which you discovered the unauthorized transfer.
8Notify your credit card company if you fail to receive a monthly statement. According to Consumer Action, you are obligated to pay your bill even if you don't receive a statement, and not receiving a statement can mean that an identity thief changed your billing address.
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