Political fraud case finds four women guilty

Even when we realize fraud occurs it always seems as though we won’t be affected by it.

08:07 04 August 2013

Based on reports, four women were found to have committed fraud in order to secure votes for their preferred Labour candidate at a Derby election.

There are always ways to exploit systems for personal or political gain, and although we would prefer to believe that most people would behave ethically, the reality is that we still need to plan for possible fraud.

Debit card fraud happens more frequently than we might like to admit but we have ways to reduce our personal risk when shopping and traveling.

• Do not write debit card numbers anywhere. If possible memorize them so you will be able to call in a lost or stolen card. There are typically other ways the bank can look up your account so it shouldn’t be dependent on your ability to give your card number.

 

• Always keep your card in sight when shopping. If someone wants to take your debit card into a back room or office to process a payment, you might want to consider shopping elsewhere. You can also ask to accompany your card and the clerk may be able to accommodate your wishes.

 

• Shred any type of sensitive information that contains PIN codes, debit card numbers, or other data that could allow thieves to access your banking account. This small measure can give you a significant amount of security when tossing out papers.

 

• Never give out your debit card information over the phone to someone who calls you. Just because they claim to be with your bank, doesn’t mean they are from you bank. Instead inform the person calling that you will call them at a later time. Contact you bank’s actual number to ensure that the call you received was legitimate and then give the requested information.

 

• When shopping online avoid saving your credit card or debit card information for future purchasing ease. If the company’s servers are compromised the culprit may have all your information, including your credit and debit card numbers.