February 21st, | 
Author: St Louis mortgage consumers are constantly bombarded with safety tips on how to safeguard the use of our credit cards and now we make use of debit cards when we make transactions in person, on the phone or the Internet.
However, one may be caught completely off guard to know that identity theft can happen to you even when you still hold your credit card or debt card in your possession.
Most people have never heard of the term "skimming." This new wave of offense utilizes modern technological advances where a criminal can much more easily steal your credit card information.
St Louis finance experts are saying that credit and debt card skimming is now becoming an epidemic while becoming more newsworthy due to recent skimming incidents similar to those at Bank of America.
Retails stores that accept credit and debit cards such as cafes, bars, gas stations and ATMs are becoming more susceptible targets for skimming.
All a criminal has to do is get hold of your credit or debt card, check it through a small hand held electronic device and in seconds has all your financial information that is kept on your card.
Criminals are also targeting ATMs now. By using cameras or monitoring you as you key in your 4 digit pin code, these ruthless white collar thieves can now drain your bank.
So, here are 7 tips to help keep your financial particulars private and safe:
1. Do not forget to always keep your bank or credit card organization updated on your personal information as you will need this to dispute deceitful charges.
2. While you are thinking about it, go and write down all customer service telephone numbers found on the back of your cards and keep this list in a secured place. Oh, and look at your monthly bank statement meticulously.
3. If an ATM is in bad shape or dilapidated, walk, better yet run away! A sign of a dirty machine may signify that it is not working or may be a criminal clone trying to steal your information.
4. Another tip that most consumers forget about is telling your credit card company when you go on vacation and the destination of your trips. They can decline any suspicious charges much faster when they have this details.
5. If you observe that the front of an ATM machine looks damaged or loose, this may be a sign that someone has attached a skimming machine.
6. If there are suspicious individuals casing the ATM, they perhaps want your cash or are wanting to watch you type your PIN number. If you at any time lose your card in a machine, just leave. It may be best to graciously turn down support from someone who may have been watching you. You can always call your bank and get a new card.
7. Cover the pin pad with your other hand when putting in your PIN number.
Another good piece of instruction that was mentioned above is to check your balance on a periodic basis when your statement arrives.
For those who use their debit cards more regularly should also know that the laws defending credit card holders do not apply to debit card purchases. So, you are more protected using a credit card.
St Louis finance analysts recommend always notify your bank or credit card company within two days of misplacing your cards. This may help limit your losses to $50. The worst thing you can do is delay this needed phone call. You may end up suffering greater monetary losses by waiting.
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