A New Horizon Credit Counseling Reports: Scammers Target Consumers In Many Ways

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Consumers are increasingly using debit cards to make purchases, and criminals have taken notice. Credit card scammers have entered the realm of the debit card, and incidences of fraud are becoming more common place. A New Horizon Credit Counseling, a nonprofit credit counseling firm, has been advising its clients on ways to avoid becoming ensnared.

Steven Stark, Chief Operating Officer of A New Horizon, comments that The most notable variation of this fraud that weve seen has been whats known as skimming. Skimming, a form of ATM fraud, allows a criminal to steal a consumers card number and PIN code everything needed to effectively empty the victims bank account. The criminal accomplishes this virtual heist by attaching a small front piece to the ATMs card reader, which electronically records the card number of any unsuspecting customer. The PIN code is stolen via a small, hidden camera placed by the scammer.

According to Stark, there are steps consumers can take to prevent debit card fraud. All consumers should integrate fraud deterrence practices into their banking habits, says Stark. He recommends using only ATMs physically located inside banks, where it is much more difficult for a criminal to install the skimming hardware. Additionally, consumers should cover the keypad with their other hand when entering their PIN, to prevent any prying eyes from recording the code. Experts also stress that consumers should check their statements and balances often and thoroughly.

Here are some other tips to follow:

Check your bank statements immediately. Make sure all payments are yours.
Periodically check your account balance and transactions, by utilizing online banking, by telephone, or by printing interim statements at the ATM.
Contact your bank immediately if your card is lost, stolen or subject to fraudulent use.
Keep a record of card numbers, PINs, expiration dates and 1-800 numbers for banks so you can contact the issuing bank easily in cases of theft.
Memorize your PIN number. Do not use your birth date, address, phone number or social security number. Never store your PIN with your card, and do not make it available to others.

Keep your receipts. You'll need them to check your statement. If they have your account number on them, tear up or shred receipts before throwing them away.
Mark through any blank spaces on debit slips, including the tip line at restaurants, so the total amount cannot be changed.
Know your limits. Many issuers limit daily purchases and withdrawals for your protection.
Do not use an ATM if it looks suspicious, it could be a skimming device.
Be wary of those trying to help you, especially when an ATM "eats" your card, they may be trying to steal your card number and PIN.
Do not give your PIN number to anyone over the phone, often thieves steal the cards and then call the victim for their PIN, sometimes claiming to be law enforcement or the issuing bank.