- Know
which type
of debit card you have, and ask your bank whether you
have a choice.
Some consumers have complained that the bank changed
their ATM card
to a debit card that does not require a PIN without
letting them know.
- Always
protect
your ATM card and keep it in a safe place, just as
you would cash, credit
cards or checks.
- Do
not leave your
debit card lying around the house or on your desk at work.
- If
your card is
lost or stolen, or you suspect it is being used fraudulently,
report
it immediately to your bank.
- If
your card is
lost or stolen, close your account and ask your bank
for a new account
number and PIN.
- Hold
on to receipts
from your debit transactions. Don't throw them
in public trashcans
or even in your own trash without first shredding them.
Crooks are known
to "dumpster-dive" for documents that have
account numbers
and other personal information.
- Memorize
your
PIN and do not write it on your card.
- Don't
choose
a PIN a smart thief could figure out, such as letters
corresponding
to your birth date or your phone number.
- Never
give your
PIN to anyone, keep it private.
- Always
know how
much money you have in your account and review bank
statements carefully.
Don't forget that your debit card may allow you
to access money
that you have set aside to cover a check that has not
yet cleared your
bank.
- Keep
your receipts
in one place for easy retrieval and better oversight
of your account.
- When
you pay bills
with a debit card, don't put them in a mailbox
with the red flag
up. That's a flashing neon light telling crooks
to grab your information.
Use a locked mailbox or the post office.
- Never
give your
debit card number over the phone unless you initiated
the call and are
certain that the recipient is legitimate.
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