NYPD’s Crime Prevention Tip of the Week: Guard Your Card!

Paper or plastic? Nowadays, people are carrying less cash and rely on debit or credit cards throughout their everyday purchases. 

But, identity theft is a serious problem. According to the NYPD, the number of U.S. identity fraud victims rose 12 percent to 11.1 million adults last year, the highest level since the survey began in 2003. 

In this week’s police blotter, an identity thief , even though the victim never lost his card, on July 18. On July 20, a crook stole a man’s fanny pack and was able to use the victim’s card at a gas station and grocery store before the cards were cancelled. 

Below you can find tips from the 78th precinct and the NYPD’s Community Affairs Bureau Crime Prevention Section to keep your identity, credit and bank information safe.

Here are a few points to consider when using a credit or debit card for purchases: 

• Carry only the cards you will be using, avoid storing additional credit cards in your wallet or handbag. Make note of what cards you carry, should you lose them it makes it that much easier to cancel them.  
• When a store clerk is processing your card attempt to keep visual contact with the card.   
• When used at a restaurant always check that your name is on the card given back to you.   
• Review your card activity a few times per month, unauthorized activity can be detected early if you frequently check balances and activity.   
• A good practice is to change PIN numbers when you change the clocks for daylight savings time. Never keep your PIN number with the card.  
• If possible request to go "paperless" and manage your account activity online.    
• When the card is not secured in your wallet or handbag it is vulnerable to theft. Remain aware and limit the exposure of the card. Today's surveillance cameras, cell phone cameras and wireless technology assist criminals in capturing information from your credit card without you even knowing it.
• Finally, make the report! 71 percent of fraud incidents began occurring in less than one week from when the data was first stolen. It is important to file a police report as soon as you notice the loss of the card, or the illegal activity. 

For more information on preventing theft, or for other crime prevention and personal safety tips visit our website: http://www.nypdcommunityaffairs.org/.