Keeping Your Plastic Cards Safe

Your credit cards and your credit card numbers are important and should be kept confidential.  By following the suggestions listed below, you can reduce the risk of credit card fraud and theft.

DO THIS...

...Do sign your plastic cards with permanent ink immediately upon receipt.
...Do memorize your card PIN.  Do not have it written down and placed in your wallet.  If you forget it, call your Co-op Credit Union and we'll help you get another.
...Do remember that your credit cards and check cards are as good as cash. Treat them that way.
...Do carry only the cards you plan to use.
...Do store unused cards in a secure, locked place.
...Do review all plastic card transactions carefully, and immediately report anything you find unusual, or transactions you don't recognize.
...Do inventory all plastic cards and keep a listing separate from where you store your cards.
...Do take receipts with you (including carbons) or tear them up before they are thrown away.
...Do routinely check your credit report for any unusual or unrecognizable activity.
...Do notify the post office to put a hold on your mail when you're out of town; or arrange for a trusted friend or neighbor to collect your mail each day.

DON'T DO THIS...

...Don't loan your cards to anyone!
...Don't keep your Social Security number in your wallet.
...Don't keep personal information in your desk at work.
...Don't give your card, card number, Social Security number or PIN to anyone.
...Don't write your plastic card number on a personal check.
...Don't give pertinent personal information such as account numbers, your Social Security number, or PIN over the phone.
...Don't allow your card out of sight during a sales transaction.