Author: Geoffrey Brown
Did you open a new debit account? If you did, you should execute some safety practices to protect your account. This post is written to show you the top seven practices that will help you manage your debit account efficiently.
Choose ATM Terminals Wisely
Beware of using ATMs and POS(point of sale) terminals with skimming devices or fake card readers that can steal your credit and debit card information. These tampered devices are usually in subway stations, convenience stores, and airports.
It’s common for people to have their debit card information stolen immediately after using a tempered ATM terminal.
If it’s important you use an ATM, make use of a trusted ATM like the one in banks and public terminals, and ensure they have active surveillance cameras.
Be Clever With Your PIN
A secured debit card pin shouldn’t be easy to guess. If possible, use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Also, your password should not contain personal information like your birthday or pet’s name. Your personal information is another detail you should keep to yourself. At all cost, avoid sending your PIN through email, social media, or chat.
Finally, don’t store your debit card pin on your phone because it can get stolen and hacked.
Check Your Account Regularly
You can spend days or weeks without knowing that your account has been compromised. You may check your account multiple times a week to prevent this. Aside from being vigilant, this practice can also help to discover any suspicious activity on your account.
Consider Using Your Credit Card to Shop Online
Some experts advise using a credit card for online purchases instead of a debit card. This is because credit card transactions take more time to process than debit transactions. Using a credit card to pay for goods and services online can buy you the time needed to report and dispute unauthorized or fraudulent transactions if any. Furthermore, ensure your card is used on secured platforms or websites.
Don’t Use a Public Network
Hackers may be able to steal your passwords and other sensitive information if you use unprotected wireless networks. Shared networks often contain viruses or keyloggers used to steal passwords/pins. Identifying a network or computer with this malicious software is hard, and most times, it’s impossible. So be careful of using unprotected networks, especially if it’s from an unknown source.
Report a Stolen Card or Unauthorized Transaction
Report unauthorized transactions or stolen debit cards to your bank/financial institutions. Taking this step will help you prevent any fraudulent transactions from taking place.
Set up Automatic Alerts
It’s best to always enable automatic alerts for your account. Automatic alerts can notify you when an unauthorized transaction or update is made to your account.
Conclusion
Many new debit account holders neglect the practices that can help protect their accounts against fraud or theft. Remember, your account isn’t something you should joke with. To ensure maximum security and protection against theft and fraud, practice the tips discussed in this article.