It's tough to keep track of all the rules and regulations surrounding
credit and credit cards, especially if you're the victim of fraud
or theft. Know how to protect yourself and learn your rights as
a credit consumer.
Credit card,
ATM and Internet fraud can often be prevented. Most thieves use
stolen credit cards within 48 hours. Call your credit card company
immediately to report a lost card. For Citibank Cardholders, in
case of loss, call 995-9999 in Metro Manila and press 3 to report
the incident.
Different credit
card companies have different rules regarding your responsibility
for unauthorized charges. Know what these are when you get your
credit card. If a thief uses your card before you report it as lost
or stolen, you may be responsible for his purchases. Follow up your
call with a letter giving your account number, the date the card
was missing and when you called in the report.
Keep your
credit safe
Be careful about how and when you use your credit cards. Never lend
them to anyone, don't give your numbers to anybody and never leave
your cards or receipts lying around, no matter where you live. Heeding
a few simple rules can save you from being a victim of credit card
fraud or theft.
- Always know
where your cards are and keep them in a safe place.
- Don't give
your account number over the phone unless you know the company
and you made the call.
- Get a card
that has added security features, like a photo.
- Draw a line
through the blank space above the total on charge slips to prevent
changes and tear up carbons from slips.
- Don't sign
blank charge slips.
- Always check
receipts against your monthly statements. Errors must be reported
within 20 days of the statement date.
- Record card
numbers, expiration dates and phone numbers. Keep this record
in a safe place separate from your cards. Use it if you need to
report lost or stolen cards.
- Never put
your account number or personal identification number (PIN) on
the outside of an envelope or postcard. Never put your PIN on
the card or in your wallet.
- Carry only
the cards you need, especially when traveling.
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