How Does Your Debit Card Number Get Stolen?

Criminals will use a variety of tactics to steal your debit card number, including sophisticated scams known as phishing, where fake online sites try to lure you into revealing your number. There are less sophisticated methods too, including phone and email fraud scams.

Phishing

Phishing is a popular online scam. Fake online sites are designed to look authentic, and emails are sent to unsuspecting consumers who are told their bank accounts may have been compromised. The consumers are told that to end the threat they should log into the (fake) online site and prove their identity by entering sensitive information, such as their debit card number, three-digit security code and PIN.

Phone and Mail Fraud

Some thieves, posing as bank officials, will send out bogus letters or contact you by telephone in an attempt to steal your account number.

Skimming Devices

Phony automatic teller machines (ATM's) and debit card scanners called skimmers are designed to copy your debit card number.

Protecting Yourself

Beware of ATM's or card scanners that look suspicious. Try to use ATMs in stores or locations you trust or at banks.

Contacting Bank

Call your bank immediately if you suspect you have been victimized.

References

• Visa: Mail and Phone Fraud
• EconomyWatch.com: Debit Card Numbers