Practice Good Habits with Plastic

Plastic card statistics are up, and much of the fraud that is associated with plastic comes from criminal activities we can’t control. But safeguarding your cards-and identity- from the risk of exposure starts with keeping constant control of your cards, card numbers, and other financial information.   “Paperless” cash is convenient, accepted almost everywhere, and, in proportion to the volume in use, very safe. But with convenience comes risk.   At the credit union, we’re proud of the measures we take to help protect your cards. But we all need to be responsible and aware of actions that will minimize risk and keep our cards safe.   Make good habits and stop bad ones to minimize your card risk. Practice these good habits: Sign your cards with permanent ink as soon as you receive them. If you card has a PIN (personal identification number), memorize it. Skip easily recognizable PINs such as the last four digits of your social security number or phone number. Delete urgent e-mails requesting person information. This is commonly known as phishing. Phishers use authentic-looking e-mail to lure people into fake Web sites to obtain personal information and commit ID theft. Only put necessary information, such as name and address, on checks. Carry only cards you’re going to use. Leave all other cards at a safe place at home. Watch the merchant perform your card authorization. Make sure purchases are recorded properly before signing the receipt. Review card transactions carefully as soon as you receive your statement. Shred receipts and statements unless you need them for proof of purchase, warranty authorization or tax purposes. If you have online access to your statement, review the account daily for any suspicious activity. Routinely check your credit report for errors and unauthorized accounts. Each major credit bureau must provide one free credit report annually to consumers requesting a copy:  annualcreditreport.com.  or call 877-322-8228. Before traveling, notify your card issuer of the location and time frame to account for changes in your card use (“out of pattern” purchases). Notify the post office to put a hold on your mail when you’re out of town, or arrange for a trusted friend or neighbor to collect your mail. Make sure online shopping sites show a closed padlock in the bottom browser window frame-outside the vendors Web site window. Follow news about fraud as it evolves with technology; those changes can affect you. When performing any transaction check out the environment for safety. When using an ATM (automated teller machine), shield the screen and keypad with your body to prevent others from seeing your PIN. Inspect the ATM to identify any tampering of the machine. Crooks can install devices to capture your information. This is commonly known as skimming. Be cautious of someone contacting you-in the guise of financial institution employees-advising you of unusual activity. Call your financial institution, at a number you’ll find on your statement, for verification. Report card loss to your card issuer immediately. Report your card fraud to the authorities. If a suspect is identified, press charges. Information from Credit Union National Association