Credit Card Scammers on the Horizon

by Michelle Vandepas | More from this Blogger

03 Apr 2007 07:20 AM

Just when you thought you were safe we hear about a new credit card scam out there. If you ever needed a reason to cut up your cards and just say no, now is the time. I still use a card for a few items. I like to use it when I purchase from the internet - but it also opens me up for scammers. If you are using a card, be careful, the scammers are getting smarter and cleverer and just downright nasty.

Here's how it works:

A person calls you on the phone and identifies themselves as a 'credit card fraud protection officer." They ask if you recently purchased a large screen TV from the internet or property from Florida. When you say no, the scamming 'officer' will verify your address and maybe give you a 'control number to write down.

Then the office will ask you to turn over your card and give them the 3 digit number on the back for 'verification purposes'. Don't do it!

I repeat. Don't do it!

The officer then thanks you and hangs up.

This scam is important to watch. People may fall for it as the scammers never ask you for personal information - they already have it! They never ask you for your credit card number - They have it!

What they want is that little number on the back. Please, don't fall for it, you might find charges on your card that you didn't authorize.

If the REAL credit card company fraud department calls you, you'll be able to verify everything with a yes or no, never give out information, and be able to tell you what charges you HAVE put on your card, (as opposed to have not put on your card.)

Best advice? Cut up the dang thing. But if you must use it. Beware!

More reading:

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Baby Steps

Learn more about Michelle Vandepas

In a previous life, Michelle was president of a medical manufacturing company, and then in private practice as a holistic business consultant.

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