Protecting Your Credit Cards
Contributed by Rachel s Pickett
Advice on Credit Cards
Getting a credit card is a big responsibility. Once you have a credit card it is important to make sure that it is protected. You want to protect it from theft in itself, but it is also important to safeguard your card from identity theft. Identity theft costs consumers millions of dollars each year at the hands of criminals. The following advice will help you to safeguard your credit card as well as other types of personal information.
Protecting Your Credit Card From Personal Theft
"Every 79 seconds, a thief steals someone's identity, opens an account in the victims name, and goes on a buying spree."-CBSnews.com That means it is important to protect your credit cards and other personal identifying matter. When you are at work or school where do you keep your wallet or purse? It is never recommended to leave your wallet unattended, and for the most part people don't. But keeping your wallet in a desk drawer or cabinet at work or school could cost you. Using a locked cabinet, locker, or drawer is acceptable, but do not share the combination or keys with anyone.
You should also never leave your wallet or purse lying on the seat of your car upon exit. Of course, make sure you lock the doors. But, if you will not be carrying your wallet or purse, tuck it in the glove box or under a seat. This will make your car and wallet less susceptible to crime. Of course any time you are in a public place carry your wallet or purse close to you, or under a jacket to avoid pick pockets. You should never leave anything of value unattended.
Protecting Your Credit Card From Identity Theft
A recent study from MSNBC.com shows that credit card fraud affects 1 in 20 consumers, identity theft hits 1 in 50. Identity theft and credit card fraud can cost you over $1000 in damages. Identity thieves stole approximately $100 million last year for an average of $6,767 per victim.-MSNBC.com Identity theft, and consumer concern for this problem are on the rise. Here are some good ways to protect your credit card.
