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1. What is credit card theft?

In its basic terms, credit card theft involves obtaining or taking credit card(s) or credit card numbers of another with the intent to use them fraudulently.

2. What is credit card fraud?

This occurs when the credit card or credit card numbers are used fraudulently without the consent of the cardholder.

Identity Theft

If you discover fraudulent transactions on your credit card account, and you still have possession of your credit card, then you may likely be the victim of an Identity Theft.  To learn more about Identity Theft, please visit the Identity Theft FAQs.

Please keep copies of all transactions showing the fraudulent transactions. If someone signed a credit card receipt in your name, then they may also be committing a separate offense called Credit Card Forgery.

3. What are some examples of credit card theft and fraud?

Some recent examples include:

• Your purse is lost or stolen and purchases are made on your credit card without your permission.
• In checking your recent statement, you notice that charges were made to your account without your consent.

4. What is not a credit card theft or fraud?

When you give someone your credit card to use, and they charge more than what you allowed them to use, then this may not be a crime. Many credit card user agreements explain that when you authorize someone to use your card, then they become an “authorized user.”

5. What should I do if I discover that my credit card was fraudulently used?

1. Report the incident as soon as it is discovered. Timely reporting will assist the detective in obtaining evidence.
2. Immediately contact your financial institution and cancel your account. Many financial institutions have specialists that will assist you. If one is provided, be sure to obtain their contact information. Make sure you follow up with them in writing. You may be asked to complete an affidavit of fraud which will be provided by them.
3. Send a certified letter to the financial institution advising them of the fraudulent transaction.
4. Request that any response be in writing and keep copies of any correspondence.
5. File a police report with the appropriate jurisdiction.
6. Contact the three credit bureaus listed below. Place a Fraud Alert on your credit report. Upon doing so, creditors are required to verify the identity of a person claiming to be you, before extending any credit to them.

6. How do I protect myself from becoming a victim of credit card theft or fraud?

• Sign your card with permanent marker as soon as they arrive.  Be sure to cut up old cards when they expire.
• Treat your credit cards like they were cash. Keep them in a safe location where you always know where to find them.
• Never leave wallets or purses unattended, even for very brief moments.  Criminals are lurking everywhere waiting for an opportunity.
• Check receipts thoroughly before signing them. Do not leave any blank spaces which may invite unscrupulous individuals to add additional amounts.
• Keep your receipts in a safe place and check them against your statement.
• Shred all statements before disposing of them.
• Never provide card information to anyone. Financial Institutions already have all necessary card and personal information and should not ask.  Many scams involve parties posing as representatives from financial institutions. When in doubt, call the number on the back of your card before providing any information.
• Be cautious whenever purchasing from online retailers. Always make sure that the transaction takes place on a secure website.