Topic of fraud focused on

Fraud can happen with credit card information and even housing benefits

13:19 19 August 2013

Housing benefit fraud is siphoning millions of pounds out of councils and a claim by MP Stephen Barclay is that there is not enough being done to prevent the loss. Recognizing and catching fraud is difficult, as anyone who has been the victim or debit card or credit card fraud knows.

Here are a few reminders to help you avoid potential debit card and credit card fraud.

• Keep debit cards and credit cards in a protective case that prevents devices from reading your card information.

 

• Ensure there is ample space between you and others whenever you enter PINs or pay with debit cards or credit cards.

 

• Don’t shop at places that remove your cards from sight to run payments. The temptation may be too great for some individuals and provides a perfect time for them to collect your information and create duplicate cards or simply shop online.

 

• When shopping online, don’t save your debit card or credit card information. Select the option to use for just that transaction. You’ll have to enter the number each time you shop, but it’s more difficult for someone to get your information if a company’s system becomes compromised.

 

• Don’t give out your debit card or credit card details over the phone if someone calls you and then claims they need your information. Instead ask for a call back number and make sure it matches the one you have for the company.

 

• Shred documents which contain part or all of your debit card and credit card numbers. This is good policy to follow for any identification information that could be used to gain access to other more sensitive information.

 

• Check all statements regularly and report all unauthorised transactions immediately.