Protect Yourself from Credit Card Fraud

Credit card fraud is more prevalent than ever in 2023. Although a credit card is a convenient way to make purchases, it can also be a very vulnerable form of payment. While many banks and credit unions have put safety measures in place to combat fraud, the nature of credit cards pose a challenge. Because of this, it's imperative that you use preventative measures to ensure your card stays safe.

6 Helpful Tips to Avoid Being a Victim of Credit Card Fraud

1. Secure your card

Securing your card in a place like your purse or wallet is the first step to fighting credit card fraud. Make sure no one has physical access to your card. Keeping your card information like your card number and PIN safe is vital to your card’s security.

2. Monitor your activity

It’s important to consistently monitor your card activity. If you notice any suspicious card activity, notify your bank/credit union immediately as it's likely fraud.

3. Use caution online 

While online purchases can be harmless, be sure to only shop and pay on secured websites. You can do this by checking for a valid SSL certificate. Another way to check for website security is to look for the padlock symbol in your web browser and stick with trusted URLs like “https” for example.

4. Be cautious of unsolicited emails or phone calls

 Fraudsters often use emails and phone calls to get ahold of your personal information. Make it a habit to only share your information with representatives from companies you deem trustworthy.

5. Protect your password

Use strong passwords for your online accounts and don’t share them with others. Get into the habit of using different passwords for different accounts. This lessens the possibility of your personal information being stolen.

6. Report lost or stolen cards

For additional information on how to combat credit card fraud, visit our “Guard your card” webpage at Guard Your Card :: Texas Trust Credit Union (texastrustcu.org)

Tips for keeping your Texas Trust Accounts Secure from Fraudsters and Scams:

• Texas Trust fraud alerts will always include our toll-free phone number in the message. Any fraud-related texts from Texas Trust without this number should be deleted immediately from your phone.

• Our team members already know your account information, so if someone calls requesting this information to stop or complete a transaction, hang up. Do not provide any information.
  
  
• Scammers will convey a sense of urgency demanding that you act immediately. If you answer their calls, be calm, don’t react, just hang up and call us directly.
  
  
• Never share your account PIN, passcodes, Social Security number, birthdate or other personal information with anyone who calls, texts, or emails you. If they claim to be Texas Trust or any financial institution, verify first.

• If you believe you have been scammed, call us immediately.

If you have received a similar text and believe you may be a victim of a fraud/scam, please contact us immediately by phone at 972-263-5171. If you believe that your credit card information has recently been compromised or have been a victim of fraud, contact Texas Trust Credit Union immediately.