Whether you choose to use a credit, debit, or pre-paid card online or in person, it’s important to be aware of how to keep your cards safe. Here are five tips that can help you identify and avoid card fraud.
- Think twice before you store your card information on an online retail website. While it makes shopping online convenient, the more places you store your card number, the more opportunities there are for your card to be compromised. Alternatively, you can use Click to Pay with Visa and enter your card information once to use at a number of retailers online.
- Sign up for card alerts if they are offered by your card issuer. These alerts can let you know when a purchase is made with your card. Regions currently offers card alerts for our check cards.
- Check your statements every month. Make sure there are no unauthorized charges on your cards. If you notice unauthorized or fraudulent charges, notify your card issuer right away.
- Check your credit report regularly. In addition to ensuring there were no credit cards (or other credit accounts) opened fraudulently in your name, you should make sure your name, address, and payment history is correct. You can request a free credit report from each of the three main credit bureaus every 12 months through AnnualCreditReport.com.
- Keep your cards in a secure location. If your cards are kept in a purse or wallet, never leave it unattended.
If you believe you are a victim or card fraud, or if your card is lost or stolen, contact your card issuer immediately. Call the number listed on their website. Some card issuers, like Regions, offer a way to report a lost or stolen card through online banking.
At Regions, we take your financial security seriously and we are working to keep you informed and protected. Visit Regions.com to find more insights and resources on card safety.
The information presented is general in nature and should not be considered, legal, accounting or tax advice. Regions reminds its customers that they should be vigilant about fraud and security and that they are responsible for taking action to protect their computer systems. Fraud prevention requires a continuous review of your policies and practices, as the threat evolves daily. There is no guarantee that all fraudulent transactions will be prevented or that related financial losses will not occur. Visit regions.com/STOPFRAUD, or speak with your Banker for further information on how you can help prevent fraud.