The Many Ways of Fraudsters

While theft is the most obvious form of credit and charge card fraud, fraud occurs in other ways as well. For example, someone may use your card number (not the card itself) without your permission. This may occur in a variety of ways: A thief rifles through trash to find discarded

receipts to use the card numbers illegally. A dishonest clerk makes an extra imprint from your credit card or charge card for his or her personal use. You receive a postcard or a letter asking you to call an out-of-state number to take advantage of a free trip or a bargain-priced travel package. When you call, you are told you must join the travel club first. You are asked for your credit-card number so you can be billed for the membership fee. The catch? New charges continue to be added at every step and you never get your free or bargain-priced vacation.

Things You Can Do

Sign your new cards as soon as they arrive. Carry your cards separately from your wallet. eep a record of your card numbers, their expiration dates, and the phone number and address of each company in a secure place. Avoid signing a blank receipt, whenever possible. Draw a line through blank spaces above the total

when you sign card receipts. Save your card receipts to compare with your

billing statements. Open billing statements promptly and reconcile your card accounts each month, just as you would your account. Report promptly and in writing any questionable

charges to the card issuer. Notify card companies in advance of a change in

address.