Credit Cards, Identity Theft & Security

Identity theft is the fastest growing global crime. ID thieves steal a person’s name or personal details and use them for their own gain.


Credit cards can be stolen in several ways. The actual physical theft of a card is common practice. Thieves can use your details to obtain a card illegally, spend on it and never pay the bill. Another way is to scan the information off your card and pass it on to create a duplicate card. Thieves get hold of personal information by skimming cards or stealing mail. Always shred everything, remove yourself from mailing lists that offer credit. Never leave your card unattended in public places, like stores or restaurants. If you’re not sure about a particular outlet, it’s best to pay with cash.

If you had the choice between the Internet and shop, where would you think most identity theft occurs? If you choose the Internet you would be wrong, but it is still a concern.

Other ways to protect yourself against credit card mis-use are:

• Sign your card as soon as you get it.
• When using your card enter your PIN so that no one can see what you’re typing in or can easily memorize your keystrokes. 
• Don't leave a receipt behind anywhere you have used your card as your PIN and account number from a discarded receipt could make you vulnerable to credit card fraud. 
• Always shred your credit card statements and receipts before throwing them away.
• Never give your credit card number over the telephone unless you made the call.

When you do call a legitimate merchant never give your card number out over a cordless phone. Radio scanners can eavesdrop on these conversations.

One common scam is when someone “calls you back” straight after you use your card, claiming to be from the merchant, telling you that there was a problem with your card number, and would you mind giving it to them again? The best thing to do is ask for a contact name and call the merchant back at the number you used originally.

Ignore any credit card offer that asks you to spend money up-front or fails to disclose the identity of the card issuer.

Always keep your credit card in your sight when making a purchase in a shop or restaurant.
Do not forget to get your card back after you make a purchase (a good idea is to leave your wallet open in your hand until you get the card back). Also, rip up any void or cancelled sales slips.
Always keep a list of your credit cards, credit card numbers and phone numbers to call in case your card is stolen or lost.

Check your monthly statement to ensure all purchases have been your own. Notify the card issuer immediately of any errors or unauthorized transactions.

Tom Smith
11th September 2007