Tips for Credit Cards and ATMs
Unfortunately, consumers sometimes become victims. Being knowledgeable about how fraud happens and following some simple security guidelines will help you protect yourself and your accounts.

Credit Card Security
Criminals have become very savvy about credit card fraud. Many times the fraud occurs after the card is stolen. However, thieves can also fraudulently use your account by remembering the information on the front of your card.

Here are some tips to help you lower the chances of credit card fraud:

• Sign your cards immediately once they arrive in the mail.
• Store your PIN in a safe place away from your card. If possible memorize your PIN and do not write it down.
• Use your credit card number carefully. Only enter your card number online if you are on a secure site.
• Do not send your credit card number to anyone in an unsecured e-mail.
• Keep a record of all your account numbers, expiration dates, and contact information for each issuer in a secure place. This will come in handy if your cards are lost or stolen.
• Report a lost or stolen card immediately. If you act quickly, you will minimize the potential loss and liability to your accounts.
• Monitor your account statements monthly. Save your receipts and match them against your statements. If you see any suspicious transactions, contact your credit card issuer immediately. When discarding receipts, statements or other confidential papers, it is best to shred them.
• When a merchant has to void a transaction, carefully review your receipts and statements to make sure the voided transaction does not post to your account.
• Do not leave receipts or carbon copies of our receipts behind. Take the receipt out of the ATM or the gas pump printer so that someone else cannot use the information.
• Only carry cards that you need. Leave cards you don’t use very often at home in a safe place.
• Only do business with those you trust.

ATM Security

When banking at an ATM, it is best to follow these precautions:

• Avoid going to the ATM alone at night. If you do need to access your accounts after dark, make sure the ATM and parking lot are well lit.
• Don't use an ATM if you notice any suspicious persons or activity. Find another ATM or come back at another time. Report any suspicious activity to the bank or to the police, if you can do so safely.
• Don't count your money at the ATM. Wait until you are in your car or, even better, safely at home.
• When using a drive-up ATM, keep your car running, doors locked, and passenger windows rolled up.
• Prepare ahead of time. Fill out all deposit slips and have your ATM card handy before you reach the ATM.
• Take your receipt out of the ATM so that someone else cannot use the information.
• Report a lost or stolen card immediately. If you act quickly, you will minimize the potential loss and liability to your accounts.
• Never write your PIN number on the back of the ATM card.