Sunday, February 22, 2009

Proactively Protect Yourself from Credit Fraud

This came from my bank.


How can I proactively protect myself against fraudulent card activity?

VyStar Credit Union and Visa® are working closely together to catch any fraudulent
behavior and protect your account. And remember, your Visa Check Card and Credit Cards
are backed by Visa's Zero Liability policy, so even if your card or its number are ever lost or
stolen, you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges. There are also some simple
things you can do.

Protect your Personal Identification Number (PIN):

• Never write down your PIN. Memorize it as soon as you get it.

• Do not disclose your PIN to anyone. No one from any financial institution, the police
or a merchant should ever ask for your PIN.

• Beware of phishing emails. These are emails that appear to be from your credit
union or online merchant asking for account information. Do not reply to them or
click on any links. Visa, your credit union or any other legitimate online merchant will never ask for your PIN or other personal financial information via email.

Note from Lena: Never click on a link in an email purportedly from your bank. Open your browser and use your bank's regular URL. They almost got my mother with this trick!

• At an ATM or PIN pad, enter your PIN discreetly, shielding the key pad with your
hand.

Note from Lena-- Beware! Cell phones with cameras can capture a picture of your PIN. Shield your entry with your hand.

What do I do if I spot suspicious activity on my account?

1. Review your monthly statements to spot any unauthorized purchases. You can
also monitor your account activity online at any time within Internet Banking.

2. Review your credit scores for accuracy. Call any one of the three credit reporting
agencies to receive your free annual credit report.

Equifax 800.525.6285

Experian 888.397.3742

TransUnion 800.680.7289

3. If you spot any charges that you did not do using your credit card or check card,
please contact your bank ASAP.

4. You should also contact the three credit reporting agencies above to notify them of any
suspected fraud or identity theft.

5. Should you become a victim of identity theft, please contact your bank and their Theft Resolution group will help you through the necessary steps to resolve the
issues.

No comments:

Welcome to my Blog!

Thanks for popping by! Don't sit on the whipping horse unless you want to find out how it's used. I speak my mind and annoy many people, but all of it is meant in good spirit. Feel free to argue with me. I like it.

Best way to reach me is by email: voiceomt2002@yahoo.com

Lena