Canadians are one of the biggest users of debit cards, credit cards and ATMs in the world. And while INTERAC® services are among the most secure in the world, debit card fraud does occur.
Take these steps to protect yourself:
- When you receive a new debit or credit card, sign it right away.
- Avoid choosing an obvious PIN, such as your phone number or date of birth.
- Carry only the cards you use most often and leave any others at home in a safe place.
- Frequently check your accounts and monthly statements and notify your Caisse Financial Group branch if you see any unfamiliar transactions.
- Notify your Caisse Financial Group branch if you are unable to retrieve your card from an ATM or if someone tries to distract you while using one.
- Be PIN smart.
- Change your PIN at least twice a year.
- Shield your PIN with your hand, body or a piece of paper.
- Keep your card insight when conducting a transaction.
- Memorize your PIN.
- Don’t disclose your PIN to anyone.
- Change your PIN after traveling.
- Where possible, tap your card when making purchases.
WATCH FOR SKIMMING DEVICES
Card skimming occurs when a criminal attaches a device to a credit or debit card reader to collect data from the card.
If the ATM or point of sale device looks like it’s been tampered with don’t insert your card or enter your PIN.
CAISSE HELPS PROTECT YOU
Credit unions and Caisses populaires work actively to detect and investigate irregular account activity. Your member debit and credit cards contain the minimum information needed to securely make a transaction.
Canadian credit unions and Caisses populaires adhere to the Canadian Code of Practice for Consumer Debit Card Services which protects card holders from losses should their card be used fraudulently. For more information go to Government of Canada – Protecting financial consumers and merchants.
If you lose your debit card or credit card, or you suspect someone has created a duplicate card, let your Caisse Financial Group branch know immediately. Refer to your cardholder agreement for further details on liability.
