In today's world, a debit card is as good, sometimes better, thay carrying cash! Keeping your debit card saft is important, so what steps can you take to ensure the safety and security of your bank account? Keep reading to find out 8 foolproof ways to keep your debit card, bank account, and personal information safe!

     1.)  NEVER SHARE YOUR PIN

This one seems like a no-brainer, but some people just don't know! Keeping your PIN to yourself is the #1 way you can protect your debit card! Never share your PIN number with anyone!

     2.)  CHECK YOUR BANK STATEMENTS FREQUENTLY

Double checking is NEVER a bad thing. Although the days of balancing our checkbook seems to be behind us, checking your bank account frequently can ensure you are able to find and stop any fraudulent activity before it has a big effect.

     3.)  ONLY SHOP ONLINE WITH TRUSTED STORES

Shopping online is generally considered safe, but if you're using a debit card, you need to be extra careful! If you choose to use your debit card online, make sure you do your homework to verify the online store can be trusted. Remember, your debit card provides direct access to the funds in your checking account. 

    4.)  WATCH FOR SKIMMING

Skimming is a practice that has been on the rise for several years. Before you swipe your card at a gas station or ATM, ensure there are no loose parts on the machine, especially where you insert your card. If anything looks off, alert and employee, or use a different machine. Skimming works by capturing your card information to use for fraudulent purchases.

    5.)  DON'T FALL FOR PHISHING SCAMS

Phishing scams can happen online or by phone. Scammers will pose as ligitimate government, bank institutions, or other well-known entities to try and steal your information. If you get a call, text or email that looks or sounds questionable and/or has a threatening or emergent tone, call Lampco immediately!

    6.)  REPORT LOST OR STOLEN CARDS

Time is of the essence! If your card has been lost or stolen, call Lampco so we can help you get a new card. Whether you leave your card at the park, a restaurant, or you just simply misplaced it, canceling that card and getting a replacement card is the safest thing you can do. 

    7.)  USE A CREDIT CARD WHEN NEEDED

If you are letting someone else use your card, purchasing something online, or traveling out of state, consider using a credit card. Credit card fraud is much easier to fight than debit card fraud. Most credit card providers have a no-fuss fraud policy, which means thay can remove charges a lot faster and easier than other financial institutions.

    8.)  STAY IN THE KNOW WITH VISA PURCHASE ALERTS

Set account alerts on your Lampco Visa® Debit Card, or any Visa® branded card you may have, and get near real-time transaction notifications to help you identify possible fraudulent activity. Click this Visa® Purchase Alerts link and register your Lampco Visa® Debit Card. You can choose how you want to receive your alerts by registering your mobile devise and/or email. Then select the notification alerts that match your needs, like transactions that exceed a certain amount. It's really that easy.

So, there you have it! Follow these 8 steps to ensure your debit card is safe, secure, and protected. Do you have more questions about credit card safety? We'd love to help! Contact us today with any questions.