Foiling Holiday Identity Theft

Newswise — Keeping up with your credit card receipts, especially those that show the account number, is one way to foil thieves. What should you do if you suspect someone has stolen your credit card number? "Contact the credit card company immediately and report unauthorized charges to its fraudulent claims department," said UAB Finance Professor Lance Nail, Ph.D. "They will investigate the claim, cancel the credit card and send you a new card with a new number. If they don't offer a new card and number, ask for it. Some companies also have zero-liability policies to protect cardholders from being held responsible for fraudulent charges. Check with your card company to see if this is offered."