Protect Your Credit Card

Losing your credit cards or having them stolen can be an aggravating and costly experience. Consumers should know that credit card fraud is a serious problem, for which everyone pays. Follow these steps to protect yourself from credit card crime:

Protecting Your Credit Cards Makes Sense

  • Report lost or stolen credit cards to the card issuer immediately. That way, the issuer can take steps to prevent the fraudulent use of your cards.
  • Keep a list of your credit card account numbers, expiry dates and card issuers' phones number so you can quickly report missing cards. Keep the list in a convenient, secure place.
  • Use caution when you give your credit card number over the phone. If you did not place the call, be sure you are dealing with a known, reputable company.
  • Never volunteer your card number to callers who tell you that you have won a trip, a prize, or are eligible to receive a free gift. This could result in unauthorized charges to your account.
  • When using a telephone, be sure you cannot be overheard when giving out your credit card or telephone Calling Card number.
  • Deal only with reputable companies for mail order transactions. Exercise caution especially if the company is outside Canada.
  • More credit cards are stolen in the workplace than any other location. Never leave them unattended.
  • Avoid leaving credit cards or other valuables in a locker at a recreational facility or public place, even if it can be locked.
  • Never leave credit cards in a car or any other vehicle. Many cards are stolen from glove compartments.
  • Never lend your credit card to anyone.
  • Sign new credit cards (if signature required) as soon as your receive them.
  • If you find your card after reporting it lost or stolen, notify the card issuer before you attempt to use it.

 

When Using Your Card

  • Keep your credit card in view, whenever possible, after you give it to a clerk.
  • Examine each sales draft before signing it. Ensure it includes the total amount of your purchases, including tips and taxes, so that additional charges cannot be added later.
  • Avoid signing blank sales drafts and ensure the incorrect sales drafts are voided or destroyed.
  • After every purchase, take and destroy the carbons form the completed sales draft to prevent others using card information obtained from the carbon paper.
  • After using your card, retrieve it promptly and make sure that you get back your own card.
  • Keep all sales receipts and check them against your monthly statement. Report any discrepancies immediately to the card issuer.
  • Remember, it is for your that a salesperson checks the signature on your card against the signature on the sales draft.

 

When Travelling

  • Beware of pickpockets in busy, crowded public places such as transit systems.
  • Spring clean your wallet before each trip. Travel only with those cards you plan to use. Don't leave cards in your hotel room. Either take them with you or secure them in the hotel safe.
  • When travelling, don't needlessly expose cash or credit cards. This can attract criminals.