December 17, 2009
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Discover Offers Last Minute Advice, Pt.1
Dangers of using debit and credit.During the next week retailers will do more business than any other time of the year. Consumers will be swiping their credit card and using automatic teller machines (ATM) with increased frequency putting them at greater risk for identity theft and card fraud. Consumers need to be aware of the dangers of using debit and credit cards. Discover Financial Services and PULSE, a leading ATM/debit network want to remind credit card customers to take extra precautions to protect themselves from illegal activities during the last minute holiday shopping. Jack McCoy, Vice President of Discover Financial Services Corporate Security division said everyone is at risk for fraud especially during the holiday season.
Cindy Ballard, Executive Vice President of PULSE said that consumer use of debit cards is also very susceptible to fraud. McCoy and Ballard say there are some simple things that debit and credit card customers can do to protect them from fraud and help them save money.
• Keep track of all spending. Check bank and credit card statements online up to date information for any unauthorized transactions.
• Check old gift cards for any remaining balances.
• Seek out discounts and promotions from retailers and credit card reward points.
• Check for free shipping offers.
• Check for online shopping discounts; Discover credit card customers earn Double Cashback Bonus when using their card online for purchases up to $1,000. Shopdiscover.com, Discovers online shopping site, offers card members a 5 to 20 percent cashback bonus on other retailers' merchandise available on the site.
• Shred all personal documents and financial documents including credit card statements and receipts when you have finished using them.
• Remove mail promptly from your mailbox. If you are going out of town for the holidays, be sure to have a trusted individual pick up your mail or have it held at the post office.
Following these suggestions along with Holiday Shopping Reminders in part two will help keep you safe.