Unfortunately, debit card fraud doesn't seem
to be going away. Now is a good time to be reminded of ways to keep your debit
card safe. Here are the top ten tips for protecting your debit card.
- Don't share your debit card or your PIN. Even with other individuals on your account. Each person on the account should have their own debit card and PIN.
- Use caution when making purchases online. Make sure the website isn't a fraudulent website. You can tell by checking for the "locked" symbol that will appear right before the URL in the address bar.
- Use caution with trial subscriptions. Read the fine print. Many trial subscriptions include an auto-renewal clause and your card will be charged a monthly fee.
- Keep your PIN in a safe location. Do not write your PIN on your card or keep it with your card. It's best to memorize it, and not have it written down at all.
- Report a lost or stolen card to your financial institution immediately. If you are a Coosa Valley Credit Union member, call the credit union during business hours to report. If after hours, call 800.500.1044.
- Keep your account information up-to-date so your financial institution can contact you regarding suspicious activity. Most calls verifying suspicious activity will come from a fraud center or department. They should NOT ask you for your full card number or your PIN.
- Monitor
your account activity and report unauthorized charges as soon as possible. Sign up
for online banking alerts to alert you to unusual
account activity. If you are a Coosa Valley Credit Union member, you can do
this for each account by clicking "Alert preferences" on the account screen.
- Only use financial institution ATMs in well-lit areas and shield your PIN from others and cameras.
- Never give out your card information in response to phone or email requests. Your financial institution should never call or email you to ask for your card information.
- Pay attention to the card reader at ATMs and gas pumps. If something looks altered, do not use it. Criminals can place skimmers on ATMs and gas pumps to obtain your card information.
Following these tips will help protect you and
your money!