Credit Card Theft

Credit card theft is a form of identity theft. Credit card theft causes considerable agony for the cardholders as they often lead to astronomical bills. Unscrupulous persons use the stolen credits card for meeting their own expenditure. Credit card theft is a form of card fraud and can occur in many ways.

Steps to prevent credit card theft and more

One should sign one's cards as soon as one gets it. It is better to carry cards in a secured cardholder rather than one's wallet. One can carry credit cards in zipped compartments, little pouches or in holders of business cards.

One also needs to keep tab of one's account numbers, contact details of companies, expiry dates of different types of cards and the like. The idea is to take the card out only when the need arises, so as to minimize the chance of accidental loss also.

The customer needs to be careful while conducting credit card transactions. They should demand their card back as soon as the formalities are over. At the payment counter also, the cardholder needs to be on the lookout for any tampering being done to his credit card.
He should immediately report to concerned authorities if he receives incorrect receipts after transactions. The receipts need to be kept aside for future comparison with the billing statements. It is also wise to destroy carbon copies. For credit cards, it is advisable to settle the monthly payments promptly. Any queries regarding charges levied needs to be clarified with the card issuer in writing as soon as possible.

Guidelines for minimizing credit card theft

It is advisable to desist from lending one's cards to other persons. It is better not to keep one's receipts and credit cards lying around unattended for. One should not put his signature on any blank receipt. While signing a receipt, it is wise to put a line through any vacant space above the total. One should not disclose one's credit card numbers to anybody over telephone without checking their credentials. For any queries regarding any company, it is advisable to contact the Business Bureau for details.