You’re likely using your credit card to make purchases for last-minute Christmas gifts. However, it’s important to be on high alert so that you don’t get taken for a ride. Fraudsters are everywhere, waiting to steal your personal information so that they can complete their holiday shopping on your dime.
“With the immense number of data breaches that occurred at retailers in 2014, and a grim forecast for 2015, it’s essential to arm consumers with tips they need to protect themselves,†said Credit Union National Association President and CEO Jim Nussle in a statement. “Knowing how to protect yourself from hackers, and what to do if you get hacked, can help you keep your hard-earned money and give you piece of mind.â€
The CUNA offers the following tips to help you keep your information away from scammers.
- Don’t respond to email, text or telephone calls asking for personal or financial information.
- Frequently review account activity and immediately report unauthorized transactions.
- Place an initial fraud alert with credit bureaus if fraud has occurred.
- Enroll in and opt-in for transaction monitoring.
- Use card on/off switches (if available).
- Enroll in Verified by VISA / MasterCard Secure Code.
Visit stopthedatabreaches for more tips.