Safety Tip #3 - Identity Theft Preventative Measures

Date:

Contact:

Telephone:

 

2010 August 12

Cpl Jag Johal

604 925 7315 Desk

 

 

Safety Tip #3
When using your Bank Card or Credit Cards
 

 

 

As a result of three incidents since July 16th in West Vancouver, the West Vancouver Police want to remind the public of the following safety measures.
 
Anyone that uses bank debit or credit cards should be extra vigilant and,
 
·       Keep their Personal Identification Number (PIN) hidden when making any type of transaction.
 
·         Always ask for a receipt and compare your receipts to your monthly financial statements to ensure all financial transactions are accounted for.
 
·         If a particular transaction does not show up on your financial statement, be alert and notify your bank immediately.
 
·         Swipe your own card or be sure that your eyes never lose sight of the card at any point during the transaction
 
·         Never allow a cashier or clerk to step away from the counter with your credit card. You may create an opportunity for them to copy your credit
       card information ie. credit card number, name, and security code,  alternatively they could take a photo of your credit card.
 
·         If you feel you are a victim of debit card theft, immediately contact the police and your bank. Freeze your bank account and have a new card issued.
 
·         Be cautious at the Automated Teller Machine (ATM).  Watch your surroundings for hidden cameras and do not forget to take your client card
       out after conducting your transaction.
 
Quite often, criminals will use Trojan terminals along with hidden pinhole cameras to capture your personal client card data when you make a transaction. Once they have acquired the data from your card, they then emboss and use that information on a counterfeit card where they are now able to access funds in your bank account and/or charge up your credit cards.
 
With advancements in technology, criminals are using all sorts of methods to steal personal data, please ensure that you take extra precautions when conducting financial transactions and or purchasing merchandise using your client cards.
 
For more information on identity theft, please follow the following link - identity theft.