Is it Safe to Email Credit Card Information?
Email is a convenient option when sending a recipe or the lyrics to your favorite song; however, it is not an appropriate way to provide credit card information or dispute a credit card transaction. As with any communication that centers on sensitive information, stay away from email.
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Identification
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A legitimate business will never ask you to provide confidential information about your credit card account via email. Never respond to any email requesting your account number, account password, Social Security number and mother's maiden name. A hacker can use this information to withdraw money, make purchases or open new credit cards in your name.
Action to Take
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If you receive an email from a sender purporting to be your credit card issuer, save the email and report the incident immediately to your credit card company. You may be required to mail or fax a photocopy of the email or answer questions about the sender. Never brush off an email that appears suspicious. Doing so enables the hacker to victimize others.
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Considerations
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While you may be tempted to send a "quick" email with your credit card number to a friend or colleague, doing so could cost you greatly. A hacker can access your email account without your knowledge and use any information found therein against you. It can be difficult, if not impossible, for the average computer user to identify and track down a hacker.
Prevention/Solution
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Make it a point to properly dispose of your account statements, as well as any receipts that show your credit card number. The best way to prevent an unauthorized third party from misusing your credit card information is to shred documents that contain your personal credit information. Alternatively, lock your credit card statements in a safe or other secure location.
Warning
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Never dispute a credit card charge via email. You or the other person or business may inadvertently send your account information and provide an opportunity for a hacker or unauthorized third party to obtain the information. Instead, contact the business in person or by phone. Keep copies of the resolution for your records.
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References
- Photo Credit email image by Hao Wang from Fotolia.com
