Over the years, debit cards have become a convenient way to make purchases and manage finances. However, with the rise of online transactions and digital payments, it is important to protect your information from fraudsters.
When you go to swipe your debit card, it can help to learn about practical tips to keep your transactions safe.
Check your account often
Make a habit of looking at your bank account regularly to see if there is anything odd or out of the ordinary going on. If you spot any charges you did not make, call your bank right away. You can also set up alerts to preemptively tell you if something weird is happening with your account.
Use safe websites and apps
When you are buying items online or using apps for banking, make sure the websites and apps are safe and secure. Look for a little lock symbol in the address bar. Also, try not to do your banking on public Wi-Fi because it is often easily accessed by others.
Keep your PIN secret
Never share your debit card PIN with anyone, including friends or family members. Choose a unique and complex PIN that is difficult for others to guess. Avoid using easily identifiable information such as your birthdate or phone number. When entering your PIN at an ATM or point-of-sale terminal, shield the keypad from prying eyes to prevent unauthorized access.
Watch out for skimmers
Be careful when you are using ATMs or card readers, especially if they look strange or appear to come loose at the top. Sometimes other people put devices called skimmers on these machines to steal your information when you swipe your card.
Report lost or stolen cards right away
If your debit card disappears or someone steals it, report it to your bank or financial institution immediately to prevent unauthorized transactions. Most banks offer 24/7 customer service hotlines for reporting lost or stolen cards.
By knowing what the most recent threats are for debit cards in particular, you can make sure your money stays in your account.