Using a debit card is tremendously useful – paying for a quick bit of gas here, paying for your lunch there – but the number of people who experience debit card fraud is on the rise. If you want to be safe with your debit card, make sure that you use the tips in our infographic and follow our suggestions here.
Tip #1 – Make Sure To Keep An Eye On Your Statements
It might sound like basic advice, but monitoring your statements for unfamiliar activity is something most people do not do. Make sure that you keep a close look at your checking account activity to spot any issues that might occur.
Tip #2 – Disable automatic transfers
You can easily link your line of credit or savings account to your debit card. Even though this is convenient when you need, the automatic transfer of funds could trigger an overdraft if someone does get a hold of your information. Any thieves who have your debit card information can wipe out BOTH accounts if you do not spot them early enough.
Tip #3 – Set Up Account Alerts
You can set up alerts for most banks, through text or e-mail that will let you know when certain transactions are being made. You can have an alert when something is out of your ‘normal’ comfort zone, which means that you are going to be notified if someone has your debit card information and is spending freely.
Tip #4 – Get Rid Of The Pin
Make sure that you never write your PIN number down and keep your PIN number private. Unless someone is your personal banker, you never want to give your PIN number to any person or company.
Tip #5 – Limit How Much Money You Keep In Your Account
If you are going to use your account regularly and want the convenience of using debit, you can be sure that you are limiting just how much money is kept in your account. That way, even if someone does take your money, you can be sure that you are not on the hook for tremendous expenses.
