Credit and debit cards offer great convenience, but choosing the right option at the right time can help protect you from unwanted charges and scams. Many credit cards carry zero-liability policies, so users are able to dispute unauthorized charges. Debit cards typically carry limited-liability policies requiring cardholders to cover a percentage of lost funds. Your BBB shares five dangerous situations for credit and debit cards, including:
Shopping online: There are potential risks with buying online, such as shared wireless networks, unsecure Internet connections, data breaches and hackers. Review companies carefully, read privacy policies and make sure sites are secure before releasing payment information.
ATM withdrawals: Scammers can tamper with automatic teller machines (ATMs) and card terminals by installing skimming devices over card readers and mounting miniature spy cameras to steal card information. Only use monitored ATMs in well-lit areas. If something doesn’t look or feel right, walk away.
Dining out: Restaurants, bars or food delivery services can keep customer payment information on file or hold cards for tabs. If cards are out of sight, they can fall into the wrong hands; cards can get overcharged or used without permission. Monitor statements regularly for unauthorized charges.
Automatic recurring payments: Many service providers like gyms, phone companies and utility services offer the option of setting up automatic deductions from your account. Forget these payments and you risk overdrafts.
Travel arrangements: Many hotels and rental car companies place blocks on accounts to ensure money will be available when it’s time to process payment. Blocks can cause your account to overdraft if the block is for more than anticipated.