Every year, millions of dollars are swindled in debit card frauds. These highly useful instruments are as valuable to unscrupulous people as they are to the owners because they offer an easy way to access personal bank accounts. That is why debit cards and card details must be used and stored with great care to ensure that unauthorized persons do not get access to them. Some basic precautions can ensure that a debit card is safe from misuse.
The most important precaution is to never reveal debit card information or give the pin number to anyone. Needless to say, writing it on the backside of the card or on the cover is a definite security risk. It also helps if the pin is a number which cannot be easily guessed by your acquaintances.
If the debit card number will be used for online purchases, it is critical to determine if the shopping sites belong to well known retailers and have proper security measures to protect your information. Avoid storing debit card details on websites of frequently visited stores. Remember that debit card purchases are generally not protected as extensively as credit card ones are. If a fraudster gets your debit card details, he can wipe out the connected current account by making online purchases.
Using online banking to keep a track of account balances can help discover anomalies immediately. Even if someone has gained unauthorized access to a debit card and is misusing it, you can limit the damage if you are alert. The same holds true when the card is lost physically or there is suspicion that someone else is misusing the card details online. It is essential to keep the computer used for online transactions updated with good anti virus software and an adequate firewall.
You should also be selective about which ATMs you use to make withdrawals. Bank ATMs have better security features and fewer crowds and they are generally safer than those at stores or malls. The magnetic strip of the debit card can be copied by a compact device called a skimmer and the card duplicated by fraudsters for use. This could happen in restaurants or hotels where the card is taken away to be charged. Sticking to cash transactions at such locations can prevent fraud.
So use your common sense and judgment to safeguard your debit card details. Being cautious is the only way to avert huge losses through scams and frauds.