4 Tips to Avoid Becoming the Victim of a Credit Card Scam
By Tedia Gamino
Credit card scammers are constantly coming up with ways to try to defraud you, so you’ve got to stay knowledgeable about how to protect yourself.
4 Ways to Avoid Credit Card Scams
Here are four simple ways to avoid credit card scams:
- Don’t click on suspicious links, or engage in unsolicited phone calls.
- Always keep an eye on your credit card balance and activity.
- Don’t use public Wi-Fi.
- Use tap-to-pay technology and mobile wallets.
#1. Don’t Click on Suspicious Links or Engage in Unsolicited Phone Calls
Phishing emails, texts, and phone calls are common. You’ve probably received an unsolicited phone call probing for your personal information, or an email or text that tried to compel you to take action by clicking on a provided link. Usually scammers create links that carry you to fake websites—that mimic the real ones—for you to share your sensitive data. Or, their link may infect your device with malware that captures your keystrokes to steal your credit card data, and other information.
Never respond to phishing emails or texts, or engage in unsolicited suspicious calls. Instead, hang up and initiate inquiries into your personal matters yourself.
#2. Always Keep an Eye on Your Credit Card Balance and Activity
When it comes to your credit card balance—know how much you owe. If there’s a sudden increase in your balance it should raise a red flag. It’s much easier, though, to set up alerts on your credit card that’ll inform you about each and every transaction made—so unauthorized charges won’t be able to fly below your radar.
#3. Don’t Use Public Wi-Fi
Scammers target consumers who make use of unsecured public Wi-Fi. So avoid using your credit card while connected to any unsecured public network. Instead, consider using your personal mobile network when purchasing anything online, or connecting your laptop to your phone’s data network.
#4. Use Tap-to-Pay Technology and Mobile Wallets
Using tap-to-pay credit card technology and mobile wallets can help you evade credit card skimmers, since you won’t have to physically insert your card into a reader.
What to Do if You’re the Victim of Credit Card Fraud
Anybody can become the victim of a credit card scam. If you find a fraudulent charge, disable your credit card using its mobile app, and immediately report the fraudulent charge to your credit card company. They can investigate, credit your account with the disputed amount, remove any charges that resulted from the fraudulent charge, and issue a replacement card.
Do You Need to Speak to an Attorney About Charges of Credit Card Fraud?
If you’ve been charged with credit card fraud, call our office at 414-383-6700 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys who can provide the guidance you need.
By Attorney Tedia Gamino