HOW TO PREVENT CREDIT CARD FRAUD

With the Holiday season rapidly approaching, the Stillwater Police Department advises all consumers to be especially diligent in the protection of their credit cards.

10 Ways to Protect Your Credit Cards

1. Never leave your cards unattended at work.  There are more credit card thefts in the workplace than anywhere else.

2. If your credit card is programmed to access an Automatic Teller Machine (ATM), protect your Personalized Identification Number.   Memorize the number, don't write it down.

3. Don't leave your credit cards in your vehicle.  A high proportion of credit cards are stolen from automobiles.

4. Always check your card when it's returned to you.  Make sure it is your card.

5. Report lost or stolen cards immediately.  Most fraudulent use of credit cards take place within 12 hours of being lost or stolen.

6. When traveling, carry your cards with you at all times, or make sure they are in a secure location.

7. Sign the back of a new card as soon as you get it.  Destroy cancelled or expired cards so no one else can use them.

8. Make a list of all your credit cards and numbers.  This information will be essential when reporting lost or stolen cards.

9. Always check your monthly statement.  Make sure all the charges are yours.

10.Never give your card number over the phone unless you are dealing with a reputable company.  Even then, only release your credit card number if you initiated the call to place an order.