Debit card hackers are getting more and more notorious in today's world. This is why it is important to know the things you can do to protect your bank accounts from these sneaky fraudsters.
Debit Card Fraud: What is It and How It Happens
Credit cards and debit cards are quite different. Hackers/fraudsters usually target the latter because it is the one that's connected to your bank account.
Fox News reported that a debit card fraud is quite similar to a house theft. Once malicious actors acquire your debit card PIN, they can easily use your money to make purchases or withdraw your funds.
Debit card hacking can happen in numerous ways. For example, fraudsters can get your information by breaching a retailer that saves your financial information.
Criminals also rely on phishing scams so that their victims will be the ones who will unknowingly provide their debit card details.
If you notice that there are unauthorized transactions on your debit card, the best thing you can do is contact your bank immediately.
This will allow you to cancel your debit card or freeze your bank account so that hackers can no longer drain it further.
Of course, it would still be best if you could prevent debit card fraud from ever happening. If you want to ensure the safety of your bank account, here are the things you can do.
Read Also: Microsoft Detects China-Based Hackers Breaching Email Accounts
How To Prevent Debit Card Fraud
Alain Filiz shows off some of his credit cards as he pays for items at Lorenzo's Italian Market on May 20, 2009, in Miami, Florida. Members of Congress today passed a bill placing new restrictions on companies that issue credit.
US News provided some effective tips that can help you protect your debit card from fraudsters. These include the following:
Check For Signs of Tampering
One of the methods used by debit card fraudsters is skimming. They do this by using a device that allows them to tamper with ATMs and other transaction machines. If you see that the ATM looks like it has been altered, try finding another safe ATM.
Beware of Phishing Scams
The most common method used by debit card hackers is phishing scams. If you receive an unexpected message via text, email, or voice mail, there's a chance that the message is a phishing scam. If the unknown contact asks for your Social Security Number (SSN) and other sensitive information that can be used for your debit card or bank account, block them right away.
Avoid Accessing Unsecured Websites
Debit card fraudsters also use unsecured websites to trick their victims. If you see that the website's link doesn't have a lock icon, then you might as well close it since it could be a scam.
Aside from these three effective safety habits, here are other things you can do to protect your debit card:
- Make sure that you are regularly reviewing your debit card reports for suspicious activities.
- Instead of using ATMs to check your balance, try installing your bank's mobile application.
- Always update your smartphone and computer software so you can get the latest security features.
- Make sure that your bank account has a two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Only make online purchases from trusted websites.
Related Article: Security Flaw in UK Surveillance Cameras Could Be Exploited by Hackers
