7 Tips St Louis Mortgage Consumers Should Be Aware To Stop Credit And Debit Card Theft

St Louis mortgage consumers are frequently bombarded with safety tips on how to protect the use of our credit cards and now we use debit cards when we make transactions in person, on the phone or the Internet.

However, one may be caught completely off guard to know that identity theft can happen to you even when you still have your credit card or debt card in your control.

Most consumers have never heard of the word "skimming." This new wave of crime utilizes modern technological advances where a thief can much more easily steal your credit card information.

St Louis finance experts are saying that credit and debt card skimming is now getting to be an epidemic while becoming more newsworthy due to recent skimming incidents like those at Bank of America.

Retails stores that take credit and debit cards such as restaurants, bars, gas stations and ATMs are turning out to be more susceptible targets for skimming.

All a thief has to do is get hold of your credit or debt card, read it through a small hand held electronic device and in seconds has all your financial information that is kept on your card.

Criminals are also targeting ATMs now. By using cameras or observing you as you key in your 4 digit pin code, these brutal white collar thieves can now suck your bank dry.

So, here are 7 warnings to help keep your financial information private and safe:

1. Do not forget to always keep your bank or credit card firm updated on your personal information as you will need this to dispute deceitful charges.

2. While you are thinking about it, go and write down all customer service contact numbers found on the backside of your cards and keep this list in a safe place. Oh, and check your monthly bank statement very carefully.

3. If an ATM is in bad shape or ruined, walk, better yet run away! A sign of a dirty machine may signify that it is not working or may be a criminal clone trying to steal your information.

4. Another tip that most consumers forget about is informing your credit card company when you go on holiday and the destination of your travels. They can decline any doubtful charges much faster when they have this information.

5. If you see that the front of an ATM machine looks damaged or loose, this may be a sign that someone has attached a skimming machine.

6. If there are suspicious individuals casing the ATM, they possibly want your cash or are wanting to notice you type your PIN number. If you ever lose your card in an ATM machine, just leave. It may be best to politely turn down help from someone who may have been watching you. You can always call your bank and get a new card.

7. Cover the pin pad using your other hand when putting in your PIN number.

Another good piece of suggestion that was mentioned above is to verify your balance on a regular basis when your statement comes.

For those who use their debit cards more often should also know that the laws safeguarding credit card holders do not apply to debit card purchases. So, you are more protected using a credit card.

St Louis finance analysts recommend always notify your bank or credit card company within two days of losing your cards. This may help control your losses to $50. The worst thing you can do is prolong this needed phone call. You may end up going through greater financial losses by waiting.

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