Fairfax, VA — April 2, 2004 - Credit cards are an excellent money-management tool. However, when most consumers learn to use credit, they do not consider the risks of credit card fraud that can happen to anyone. Thieves can use your credit card information and pin number to use your current card, or they can open a fraudulent credit card account in your name with only your Social Security number and date of birth. Unfortunately, this information is easy to acquire if you do not take vital precautions to protect your identity.
AICCCA recommends these tips to help you practice the "credi-quette" necessary to protect yourself:
Only conduct business with reputable retailers - Never allow a merchant to simply write down your credit card information on a piece of paper when you make a purchase. It is impossible to know where this information will end up or even how the retailers themselves will use it. By the same token, avoid reading your credit card information over the phone unless you know who you are dealing with, and never give the information from a cell phone.
Carry no more than one or two credit cards at a time - The more cards you carry, the more liable you are if they end up missing. Department and gas cards may be convenient, but if they fall into the wrong hands, anyone can buy gas with only your card in hand. Therefore, stick to your one or two major credit cards.
Use creative passwords and Personal Identification Numbers - It is wise to choose information other than your last name, date of birth, or the last four digits of your Social Security number. These are easily attainable passwords and they are very common. Choose more cryptic passwords instead. Good examples include the last name of your favorite high school teacher or a college roommate. Whatever you do, don't put these passwords or Personal Identification Numbers in your wallet or purse.
Shield your Personal Identification Numbers at ATM machines - Use both hands when at the ATM to shield your information as you enter your four-digit PIN number. "Shoulder Surfers" can view what you are doing, and someone may even be watching from a remote location with a set of binoculars.
Destroy trash with pertinent information - Shred any documents that contain information such as your Social Security number, driver's license number, bank account information, or credit card information. This will prevent dumpster divers from finding such valuable information that could be used to steal your identity.
Don't share your card with anyone - Don't lend your card to anyone including friends and relatives. While these people may be completely credible, you have no way of knowing who will see the credit card when it is not in your possession.
Your credit privilege and history are worth protecting. If you do find that your credit card statement contains items that you never purchased, contact your creditors and the police immediately. You may need to close your accounts and open new ones. Take action by following these tips, and you will reduce your chances of being victimized.
Founded in 1993, Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies (AICCCA) is a national membership organization, established to promote quality and consistent delivery of credit counseling services. AICCCA and its members are focused on improved creditor relations, efficient processes and advanced technology to best serve clients and creditors. AICCCA members are independent nonprofit agencies that advocate for debtors, counsel millions of consumers annually nationwide and provide debt management services to consumers with excessive unsecured debt. For more information or to contact an AICCCA member office call (800) 450-1794 or visit www.aiccca.org.
