What to do stolen credit cards
What to Do About a Stolen Credit Card
Credit bureaus actually recommend that credit card users make photocopies of their credit cards (front and back) and file them in a safe location. Each photocopy should be clear and the card number visible. Also list the contact number of the credit card company and its hotline or customer service number. Keep a copy of this list of phone numbers in your car, home, and office so they are ready for use anytime. If your credit card gets stolen, having this information always at hand will help you deal with the situation more efficiently.
The very first step you must take when your credit car is stolen is to file a report. A stolen credit can be used to make purchases within minutes after the theft is made. This is why credit card companies have 24-hour telephone lines for theft reports and to report other unauthorized usage of the cards. Call the number, report that your credit card was stolen, and have it cut off immediately. It is crucial that you take note of the exact time the call was made, along with the date and the name of the person who took your call. This is all necessary information that you will include in your letter or report explaining the theft.
You should also contact the police as soon as possible to file a police report. Have a copy of this report ready to serve as proof when reporting to your credit card company and bank. This is very important, especially if your identity gets stolen as well, as it can show you really were defrauded and that you took the right steps to help yourself.
Over the next few months, monitor your credit activity. See to it that no unauthorized charges or made and that there are no attempts to establish a new account using your name. You should not be liable for charges made after you reported the unauthorized use, so also ensure that these charges are removed from your statements.
To reduce the chances of your credit cards being stolen, experts recommend that you take important precautionary measures. For instance, keep your credit cards in a secure place if you are not intending to use them. Also, destroy your credit card bills as soon as you pay them. This will prevent malicious people from stealing your account details and financial records. It will also prevent them from using your credit card for personal use. A stolen credit card is not a matter to be taken lightly, and you want to make sure you protect yourself as much as possible.
Source: superpages
