Protecting Your Debit Card Activities

Debit cards have become a preferred way of purchasing for many. They are convenient, accepted by most stores, eliminate the need to carry cash, are often easier to use than a check. Along with these benefits, comes the risk that a thief will steal your card or your card information. If that happens, the thief can then charge purchased items to your account. Here are some guidelines to protect your debit card activities:

Physically Protecting Your Debit Cards

• Keep seldom used cards in a safe place
• Keep a list of your debit card numbers and issuing companies’ phone numbers in a secure place
• If you are expecting a new or re-issued debit card and do not receive it, contact the issuing company immediately
• Activate and sign any new cards immediately when you receive them

Protecting Your Debit Card Information

• Never write your PIN number on your cards
• Never give debit card information over the phone unless you initiated the call
• Look over your statement each month and see if your account is in good standing, or if there are any unknown debit card charges

Preventing Unauthorized Use of Your Debit Card

• Never lend your card to someone else. They could use it improperly or it could be stolen
• Always total the receipt and draw lines through unused spaces on the receipt
• Never sign a blank charge slip
• When using your card, be sure to get it back and take the receipt
• Keep all your receipts and compare them to your account statement

In Case of Problems

• If your debit card is lost, contact the issuing company immediately
• If you believe your card was stolen, contact the police and issuing company immediately
• If your wallet or purse is stolen, contact all your debit card issuers to report the theft
• Most card companies have a toll-free number for reporting stolen or missing cards. Some companies provide 24-hour service

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