Phishing

As technology has evolved so too has crime. This has given rise to the cyber criminal. The new modern way to steal someone else's money is not through outright physical robbery. Credit card fraud and identity theft are amongst the fastest growing areas of reported activity. Stealing someone's credit card and personal details unknowingly is the new stealth mode of operation.

What is credit card fraud and identity theft?

Credit card theft is where someone steals your personal credit card details and executes unauthorized transactions for the purchase of good, services or extraction of cash from the account. Identity theft, however, is where someone's personal details are stolen for use with fraudulent or illicit activities. This personal information may include birth date details, social security numbers, home and office addresses or information about the person's bank account. These details are sometimes used for terrorism, illegal immigration, espionage or to effect a permanent change in identity.

How can you protect yourself from internet credit card fraud and identity theft?

Often, a person's details or credit card is used unknowingly and they do not become aware until either the credit card statement arrives or some external event alerts them to a transaction that they did not authorize.

The first and foremost requirement is to keep personal details stored in safe locations and away from third party eyes. It is also advisable not to entrust personal details to anyone who could potentially misuse them. The people involved in credit card fraud and identity theft regularly seek credit card numbers and social security numbers of unsuspecting people over the phone. So, take adequate precaution to not pass on details over the phone. Also, do not leave any unattended mail in the inbox. The mailbox should be cleaned at least once a day. Criminals target mail that contains credit card and bank statements in order commit credit card fraud and identity theft. Another preventive step is to avoid carrying all of your credit cards. Only the necessary cards should be carried. The rest should be safely and securely stored at home or appropriate location.

In the case of internet transactions, do not entrust details to anyone through email. Use only safe and secure forms that are protected by security. Always ensure that you have loaded bank security applications prior to engaging in any transactions. You should also avoid clicking on any links inside emails that ask you to update security details. If you suspect the email to be bogus, call the company immediately. Always log directly into the website where you intent to perform the transaction. This will minimize the chances that you are redirected to a third party site where your details may get stored unknowingly.

If you follow the above guidelines and exercise caution, you will improve your personal security and minimize the chances of credit card fraud and identity theft.

Privacy Policy | Contact Us |