Avoiding credit card fraud

It's not always possible to prevent credit card or charge card fraud from happening. But you can take a few steps to make it more difficult for a crook to capture your card numbers. Here are some tips to help protect you from credit and charge card fraud.

Do:

• Sign your cards as soon as they arrive.
• Carry your cards separately from your wallet. Try a zippered compartment, a business card holder, or another small pouch.
• Keep a record of your account numbers, their expiration dates, and the phone number and address of each company in a secure place.
• Keep an eye on your card during the transaction, and get it back as quickly as possible.
• Void incorrect receipts.
• Destroy carbons.
• Save receipts to compare with billing statements.
• Open bills promptly and reconcile accounts monthly, just as you would your checking account.
• Report any questionable charges promptly and in writing to the card issuer.
• Notify card companies in advance of a change in address.

Don't:

• Lend your cards to anyone.
• Leave cards or receipts lying around.
• Sign a blank receipt. When you sign a receipt, draw a line through any blank spaces above the total.
• Write your account number on a postcard or on the outside of an envelope.
• Give out your account number over the phone unless you're making the call to a company that you know is reputable. If you have questions about a company, check it out with your local consumer protection office or Better Business Bureau.