Debit card fraud is an unfortunate vulnerability in our electronic lives. It can take a terrible toll on your personal life as well as on your finances plus hours if not days to straighten out.  That is why people guard their PINs carefully. Here are some steps you can take to protect your debit card:

• Have a PIN that is nearly impossible to guess. This means no birth dates, regardless of if it’s yours or a loved ones. To be safe, stay away from anniversary dates as well.
• Use on-line banking so you can check your account daily, as time is crucial in cases of electronic theft. Checking your account should be as routine as brushing your teeth and takes about the same amount of time.
• Request electronic, not paper, bank statements – your trash bin is a thief’s gold mine.
• When making purchases, whether on-line or in person, use a credit card instead of a debit card. Credit cards offer greater protection if an illegal charge is made.
• To withdraw money, use bank ATMs instead of those at gas stations, stores, or on the street. Bank ATMs usually have video cameras.
• Shred all credit and debit cards that are expired or that you are not using.
• Have several accounts that you can use easily to access cash. If one account is being used fraudulently, it may take some time for you to be able to use it again.
• Sign up for alerts from your bank. They can flag your account for suspicious activity and will contact you by the method you specify (phone, text, email.)

For more information on debit card fraud, card safety and savvy credit practices, contact us.