Credit & Debit Card Fraud

What It Is

Credit or debit card fraud occurs when someone steals another person's credit or debit (ATM) card, or the identifying information from one, and uses it to make purchases with no intention of paying the cardholder – or the merchant.

How to Prevent It

• Your signature is like a fingerprint. Sign your cards as soon as you receive them. You may wish to add an extra note such as "Ask for I.D." to the signature line for an extra degree of identity protection.
• Make a list of all your card numbers and PIN numbers and store it in a safe place. Never carry the list with you.
• Never leave a copy of your receipt on a restaurant table. Make sure that your server takes your signed credit card receipt to the register before you leave.
• Never give your account numbers over the telephone or put them in an email.
• Avoid keeping your credit and debit cards, Social Security card, birth certificate and passport all together. Carry only what you will be using.
• When making purchases on the internet, make sure your transactions are secure. This is usually indicated by a pop-up message and by a key or lock icon on the bottom of your page. Only shop online with companies you know and trust.

PIN Number Safety Tips

• Never write PIN numbers on your card or keep them in your wallet.
• Never use the same PIN or ID number for all your cards.
• Don't give your PIN number to anyone. No one from financial institutions, law enforcement or merchants should ask you for this information.
• Do not use obvious numbers for your PIN. Avoid using digits from your telephone number, Social Security, date of birth or any number someone could easily figure out.

Paper-based Protection

• Never throw account statements or pre-approved card offers in the trash. Shred them or destroy them beyond repair.
• Always verify that everything on your statement is correct. Immediately report any discrepancies to your credit or debit card issuer.
• Opt out of receiving paper statements by enrolling in online accounts.
• Before going on vacation, have the post office hold your mail.
• If you know a statement is late in the mail, contact the card issuer immediately.

If It Happens to You

Always report lost or stolen cards immediately upon discovery.

Thrivent Financial Bank – after hours, call:

• Debit Card: (866) 226-5225 and say "Lost Debit Card"

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