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Protecting Yourself Against Debit Card Fraud

When you make a purchase with a debit or credit card, are you worried about your sensitive information being compromised? It’s hard not to be these days, given the frequency of reports about data breaches and identity theft. On top of it, there are constant warnings around us about scammers “phishing” for credit card numbers using bogus emails and websites.

Given the focus on credit cards, you might be surprised to learn that consumer experts are equally concerned with fraud involving your “other plastic,” aka your debit/ATM card.

A quick look at debit card fraud statistics:

  • In 2020, 25% of consumers reported incidences of debit card fraud (source)
  • 13% of consumers reported fraudulent charges on their debit cards in 2020 (source)
  • All types of debit card fraud are on the rise

But don’t let those numbers fool you. Consumer experts say that fraud is still on the upswing and scammers are finding ways to outwit the chip. So as an active consumer, what should you do to ensure your information is secure? At Centreville Bank, we recommend considering three takeaways:

  1. Take precautions when using your card.
  2. Monitor your checking account for unauthorized transactions, using online or mobile banking tools.
  3. Know what to do should you have a problem.

Beware of Skimmers at Unknown ATMs

Did you know that someone can steal your debit card information and use it, without having to have the physical card? Those same phishers also pursue debit card information online. Dishonest employees can eyeball your card and PIN numbers when you make a retail purchase. And, checkout terminals at retail stores can be hacked.

And then there’s something called the “skimmer.” Put simply, small devices with tiny cameras can be secretly attached to ATMs or retail terminals and illegally record every debit card transaction. So, watch for anything unusual near the card entry slot when you use retail terminals or ATMs. Of course, sophisticated scammers often place skimmers inside terminals, where they can’t be seen. But if your card doesn’t enter the slot smoothly, that can be a warning sign. And if you do notice this, call the financial institution that owns that ATM immediately, if there is one, to report a potential skimmer.

Monitor Your Account

One silver lining with debit card fraud -- it’s fairly easy to spot. Consumer advocates suggest you take these steps:

  • Use online banking. Check your balance and recent transactions daily, looking for purchases or withdrawals you didn’t make.
  • Sign up for alerts. At Centreville Bank, we’re always on the lookout for unusual activity in your account. We’ll contact you by email or text if we see anything that looks suspicious.
  • Switch to e-Statements. If you miss something while monitoring online banking, you might see it while viewing your monthly electronic statement. Signing up for e-Statements also eliminates the possibility of having account information stolen from your postal mailbox.
  • Keep several accounts. Checking accounts are great places to keep money for everyday expenses. But consider moving extra cash into Savings Accounts, Money Markets or Certificates of Deposits (CDs). Doing so could limit the financial damage should you become a debit card fraud victim. Plus, you’ll earn interest on your deposits.

Report Problems Quickly

Visa, Mastercard and other credit card companies have their own fraud response programs. They can spot problems when a card is used improperly, or when questionable charges first appear on your bill. That allows you to address the situation before paying for items and services you didn’t really buy or authorize.

Banks and credit unions usually offer their own debit card fraud protection. Your Centreville Bank Debit Mastercard® comes standard with the safety and support of Identity Theft Resolution Services through Mastercard®. This includes 24/7 access to Certified Resolution Specialists who will work to protect you against any potential identity theft activity you might encounter. If you notice problems with your account, contact us immediately. If you notice your debit card is missing, you can lock it instantly or set transaction limits to further protect your accounts. Scammers often make withdrawals on an account over and over until the debit/ATM card is canceled.

There are also federal debit card fraud laws to protect you. If you report unauthorized card use within two days, your losses are limited to $50. But you risk losing up to $500 if you wait up to 60 days to make a report. Longer than that? You could permanently lose everything taken from your account.

At Centreville Bank, we share your concerns about debit card fraud. Please contact us with any questions or to report problems with your account. You can reach us at 800-377-4424 or visit a local Rhode Island or Connecticut branch.