 |
Know which
type of debit card you have, and ask your bank whether
you have a choice. Some consumers have complained that the bank
changed their ATM cards to debit cards that do not require personal
identification numbers without letting them know. |
|
Always protect
your ATM card and keep it in a safe place, just as you
would cash, credit cards or checks. |
|
Do not leave your debit card lying
around the house or on your desk at work. |
|
If your card
is lost or stolen, or you suspect it is being used fraudulently,
report it immediately to your bank. |
|
Close your account and ask your
bank for a new account number and PIN. |
|
Hold on to
receipts from your debit transactions. Don't throw them
in public trash cans or even in your own trash without first
shredding them. Crooks have been known to "dumpster-dive"
for documents that have account numbers and other personal information.
|
|
Memorize your
PIN, and do not write it on your card. |
|
Don't choose a PIN a smart thief
could figure out, such as numbers corresponding to your birth
date or your phone number. |
|
Never give
your PIN to anyone. Keep it private. |
|
Always know
how much money you have in your account, and review bank statements
carefully. Don't forget that your debit card may allow you to
access money that you have set aside to cover a check that has
not yet cleared your bank. |
|
Keep your receipts
in one place for easy retrieval and better oversight of your
account. |
|
Never give your debit card number
over the phone unless you initiated the call and are certain
that the recipient is legitimate. |
Chapter 2: ABCs of ATMs
