Recovering From Bank Fraud [Black Enterprise]
By Royal, Leslie E | |
Proquest LLC |
CONSUMER LIFE
What to do if your bank account is wiped out
LAST OCTOBER.
"A check for
Washington fied a report with
Approximately 71 % of organizations experienced attempted or actual payment fraud in 20 1 0, according to the
It's important to understand how criminals steal banking information. Many use cell phone-sized devices with a magnetic strip called a skimmer to retrieve data from your bank card. Skimmers can be used at an ATM, gas pump, and even at a restaurant. Hidden cameras and Dumpster diving are other means.
"If you discover that someone has wiped out your bank account, call the bank immediately. Contact anyone who gets automatic payments such as mortgage and insurance companies, to explain that payments may be late or not go through," advises
Identity theft begins with access to personal information found on mail, credit cards, identification, and other documents. Leverage online banking and sign up for electronic delivery of information to avoid receiving account statements or canceled checks in the mail Also be aware of phishìng scams where fraudsters send fake correspondence to get you to give out your bank account number.
"Sign up for direct depositto have paychecks. dividends, tax refunds, and other deposits sent directly to your bank account," advises Gerì Thomas, SVP1 Global Diversity and Inclusion Executive and
Avoid unfamiliar websites, use a shredder, sign up for e-mail or text alerts from your bank, and place a lock on your mailbox. Also avoid clicking on links saying they're from your bank. Instead, go to your bank's websfte and log in to your account.
"It's important to protect your debit card because it can be more dangerous than a credit card. Under federal law, credit cards have more protection. If you don't report a debit card stolen within two days, you can be responsible for
To reduce your chances of becoming a victim, be on the lookout for these red flags:
* If you see misspelled words when banking online, or receive a request for your
*You're atthe ATM and the card swipe looks altered, the machine is not under camera surveillance, or people are lingering around Leave quickly and report this to bank officials. If you'd like to file criminal charges, you can, but die bank will likely conduct its own investigation, "If you know the person that has stolen from you such as a roommate or relative, you can tip the cops off and file charges. Other than that I would have the bank handle the investigation," says Pritchard. -
A VICTIM OF FRAUD, WASHINGTON WAS ABLE TO RECOUP FUNDS FROM
Copyright: | (c) 2011 Earl G. Graves Publishing Company, Inc. |
Wordcount: | 699 |
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