As we are all returning to work after a holiday season it is important that users carefully check their credit and debit card activity.  If many readers are like me, they spend too much on their cards over the holidays and have difficulty keeping track of receipts.  Scammers and credit card thieves are very active during the holiday season for this very reason.  They are aware that many people will probably not recognize a suspicious charge until it is too late, if at all. 

If you see a transaction that you are sure you did not make, contact your card issuer using the number on the back of the card and dispute the charge.  Remember that under federal law you are limited to $50 in liability and under major card brand rules you have $0 liability for ’signature’ transactions.  As stated in a previous post, PIN based transactions may not be afforded the same protection.  Unfortunately, some issuers may direct you to talk to the merchant in question.  If you did not make the purchase than this is a ridiculous suggestion.  Simply explain that it was NOT your card or transaction and dispute the charge as unauthorized.  It is possible the bank may require you to fill out an affidavit while they investigate the charges.  Either way keep in mind that you have limited liability for any charges that are fraudulent.  Also be aware that if there are fraudulent charges it is likely the issuer will cancel your card and reissue a new card to you. 

Have a happy new year!