ATM and Debit Card Safety Tips
The recession has prompted consumers to use their debit cards more than other forms of payment, but with the increased use comes an increased risk of fraud, according to Jim Cichy, PULSE vice president of fraud management.
"To keep money safe and secure, consumers need to better understand how to work with their financial institution to combat security compromises and fraudulent use of financial information," he said.
Along with keeping PIN numbers a secret, PULSE noted that consumers should memorize their PINs and never write it on a card or store the number with the card. Also, never let someone else enter a PIN number.
"No company or individual should ever ask for your PIN," PULSE said.
PULSE also suggested that consumers:
- Never provide a debit or credit card number or any personal information through an unsolicited e-mail or request;
- Look for secure transaction symbols when shopping online to ensure the account information is protected;
- Call the financial institution if a card is lost or stolen;
- Review all account statements promptly and report any errors;
- Do not expose a card's magnetic stripe to magnetic objects because they can damage cards;
- Block the view of others when using an ATM or PIN debit terminal;
- Observe surroundings before using an outdoor ATM or debit terminal;
- Do not use ATMs that appear to be tampered with and report tampering to the ATM owner immediately.