Your credit card can be your best friend, So take care of it like you would that friend. Remember that credit card fraud is rife and do not be naive about where credit card details are stolen. Many people are paranoid about using credit cards on the Internet and immediately assume that online buy-sites must be where The Bad Guys obtain credit card details from.
Fact is, the majority of credit card numbers are obtained far more easily. What happens to your card when you hand it over in a restaurant or store? Do you allow it to be swiped where you cannot see what is happening to it? It is your right as a consumer to insist that the card stays in sight while it is swiped through the machine. It is for this exact reason that more and more companies are using the hand-held machines. Do not be complacent and hand over your gold card to an unknown and then be surprised when your limit is used on computer equipment or jewellery that you won’t be wearing.
You will be glad to know, though, that the credit card holder sits in the seat of power. As soon as you notice purchases on your card that you did not make, contact your credit card division (they’re normally open late if not 24 hours), report the unauthorized transactions and have your card stopped. When you follow up the next day, bring out the big guns and insist on speaking to a manager type person. Identify the purchases on your statement that were made fraudulently and request that an immediate charge back is done. The bank will contact the merchant who will then have the burden of proof that the signature was checked and that the purchase was not made with a stolen card.
If you do buy online with your credit card always ensure that the page on which you enter you number is encrypted. You can verify this in two ways. The URL will start with https:// and there will be a little lock in the bottom right-hand corner. It is also advisable to check a website’s SSL certificate, which should be easily accessible. If in doubt contact them directly to find out what security they offer against fraud.
