1. Always be aware of where your bankcard is. Infrequent users may realize too late that their cards have been lost or stolen.
2. A stolen ATM/debit card can be used without knowing the PIN for 'point of sale' purchases with a forged signature. The number can also be used for online or telephone purchases without a signature or PIN. Sign new cards as soon as you receive them.
3Destroy receipts and carbons after you have reconciled purchases and withdrawals with your bank statement. If you wish to retain receipts, check to see if your card number is on the receipt. If it is, cut off and destroy that portion.
4. When paying for merchandise, meals, etc with your bankcard, always keep your card in sight while the transaction is taking place. Do not permit an employee to walk away with your card or swipe it under the counter or out of your line of sight.
5. Keep the telephone number of your financial institution in a handy location. Many banks have 24/7 call centers with toll-free telephone numbers. Immediately report lost, stolen, missing bankcards, and unusual activity against your account, etc.
6. Never lend your card to anyone. I see cases every day where a trusted friend, family member, boyfriend/girlfriend have used cards beyond what had been originally authorized. If you do happen to lend your card to someone, and find that you no longer want them to have access to your accounts, you should do one or more of the following:
- a) have your PIN changed
- b) have your card disabled and get a new card with a different PIN
- c) formally notify your financial institution of your authorization reversal by calling the toll-free number and in writing
- d) close down the account and open a new one with your bank. If anyone else is added to your account(s), remember that they will have full access to funds in that account.
7. Never give your card number over the telephone unless you are initiating a transaction with a reputable company. The same goes for online purchases. Remember to look for the 'secure site' lock at the bottom right of your screen.
8. Never write your PIN on the card itself. It is best kept to memory and should never be a number that is connected to you personally i.e. social security digits, birth date, address, phone number, etc. If you do happen to write down your PIN, do not keep it in the same location as your card. 9.While using an ATM, do not allow anyone to see you enter your PIN. Do not allow anyone to 'assist' you with your transaction. Do not allow anyone to distract you. Always remember to complete the transaction and remove your money, card and receipt immediately. Do not leave receipts at the machine. If anyone around an ATM makes you feel 'uneasy,' leave the area and use another machine. Trust your instincts.
10. Remember to add purchases and withdrawals to your checkbook.
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