Many of us shop online for a variety of items, including clothes, electronics, gifts and more. Using a debit card for online or even in-store purchases is often quick, convenient and cost-effective, especially during the holiday season.
When you’re in a rush to buy that last-minute item, don’t forget to be aware of safety. Follow our top tips to ensure your debit card is secure.
Tips to Keep Your Debit Card Secure
When you use your debit card, money is immediately withdrawn from your checking account. Remember the following tips to reduce your risk of identity theft or fraudulent activity.
#1 Don’t Share Your PIN
Keep your PIN stored in a safe place, like an encrypted password management system. Make sure not to write it down anywhere, especially if it’s kept in your purse or wallet. You can also avoid using your PIN when you select the credit purchase function at a store or gas station.
#2 Check Your Bank Statements
Regularly check your bank statements to ensure there aren’t any fraudulent transactions. Go paperless so you can log on to view your transactions anytime and avoid having your bank statement in the wrong hands. Contact your bank immediately if you notice anything suspicious.
#3 Be Alert for Fraud/Phishing Attempts
Card skimmers are devices inserted into ATMs, gas station pumps or other point-of-sale systems. When you scan your card, the skimmer sends your private information to the person who set up the skimmer. They are often difficult to spot, so it’s important to be vigilant if you must insert your card.
If something doesn’t seem right, like the keypad feeling or looking unusual or loose, report your concern and use a different machine or pay with cash. And, if your card has a chip, tap to pay instead of inserting your card.
Criminals are more likely to set up skimming devices at remote ATM locations, so try using automated teller machines (ATMs) located in or near a bank. The additional surveillance at most banks may deter criminal activity.
Related: Learn about Fidelity Federal debit cards >>
#4 Avoid Using Public WiFi
Public WiFi, or wireless networking technology, isn’t protected with a password, so anyone in the vicinity can access the internet connection. Use only password-protected WiFi when logging on to your bank account or shopping online with your debit card to reduce the risk of hackers stealing your account information or password.
Apply for a Debit Card at Fidelity Federal Today!
Fidelity Federal offers a MasterMoney™ Debit card that is safe, secure and easy to use. You can also enjoy the convenience of getting cash back and using the card at an ATM to withdraw or transfer funds and check account balances. Shop online with confidence with no annual fee!
