debit card fraud

Debit card fraud is a major financial concern. The security of my debit card was something that I was taking for granted. A gas purchase and a parking fee paid in Chicago totaling just under 100$ posted to my online banking record. I had fueled up the night before on my way home in Las Vegas. Two things that made me realize I was the victim of a crime.  My car has a 16.9 gallon tank and with rising gas prices it still doesn’t cost that much to fill my tank. The last time I was in Chicago was ten years ago.  

I called the banks twenty four hour customer assistance line from the website. I alerted them I had not made the purchases. They inquired if I had filed a police report, and if I would be willing to press charges if the thieves were caught. I said I had not taken any other action but I would if necessary. They also verified that I had not knowingly compromised my PIN number...etc. All this was shocking on an otherwise quiet night at home.

This continued the next day spending an hour at the bank having my purchases questioned. I also received a temporary limited use debit card. The bank also created an additional account for me. Now a thief will only get a hundred dollars instead of my whole account. I feel anxious even thinking about a movie rental or card swipe anywhere. Paper work and my multiple debit cards are on the way. I’m left wondering what I will be responsible for.  Maybe credit cards would be a better, safer spending method.

I want to protect my money. After an online search for debit card fraud, I learned about the ways your card information can be stolen. It all feels very cloak and dagger. I would like to share ideas and posts. This blog can also be used for networking. It will help consumers. In an unsure economy it can provide a better understanding about banking and the security of everyone’s bank accounts.