Ways to Keep Your Debit Card Safe

3 Min. Read

Unfortunately, scammers are out there trying to take advantage of your debit card, but if you stay informed, you can greatly lower your risk of being targeted. Here are some tips on how to avoid popular phishing and skimming scams and how to keep you and your money safe.

What is a Debit Card and How Does It Work?

A debit card lets you use your own money to pay for things from your bank account right away, unlike a credit card that lets you borrow money and pay it back later. You can swipe it, tap it, or insert it to pay, using a personalized PIN number.

What is a CVV Number on a Debit Card? 

CVV stands for Card Verification Value. It’s a three-digit number on the back of your debit card that gives extra protection against debit card fraud.

How Can You Keep Your Debit Card Safe?

Great question! The fact that you’re thinking about this is a good first step. Being aware can make all the difference.

• Always keep your debit card in a safe place.
• Never share your PIN and memorize it instead of writing it down.
• Check your debit card balance. If you see something strange, report the suspicious activity right away.
• If you’re worried someone has access to your debit card information, place a temporary block on your card and contact your credit union.
• At most financial institutions, you can set controls on your card. If you want to access these controls at Marine Credit Union, simply sign into online banking-click on more (bottom right) then select account settings-card management. Here you can block or unblock your card- or set daily limits.  Limits can be set for Pin Purchase or Signature Purchases at $1,000 or $3,000. Any purchase over that limit will be immediately declined.

What Are Scanners and How Do I Protect My Debit Card?

Scammers can use radio frequency identification (RFID) scanners, also known as RFID readers, to try to steal your card info. In a crowded place they can scan your card info through your wallet or purse and steal your card number without you knowing. They can then try to make a fake debit card or use your info online.

To keep your debit card safe, you can use an RFID wallet, or a debit card cover that performs RFID blocking so scammers can’t scan your card. Or you can add your card to your mobile wallet and leave your card at home.

What Are Skimmers and How Do I Protect My Debit Card?

Skimmers are fake devices that scammers put on real card reading machines—like at gas pumps or ATMs, especially in tourist areas. When you slide in your debit card, the skimmer steals your card number. Sometimes, scammers also hide a tiny camera to see your debit card PIN. This is why it’s important to cover the keypad when entering your pin number. Also, use tap to pay whenever you can. This tokenizes your transaction, keeping it safe from skimmers.

To keep your debit card safe be on the lookout for any card reading machine that looks altered, damaged, or tampered with in any way. If inserting your card is difficult or feels sticky, cancel your transaction and report it to the Credit Union or cashier.

How Do I Block Someone from Charging My Debit Card?

If you think someone might have your debit card number, call the credit union to block your debit card from any use. You can also restrict your debit card through our mobile application.

Is Tapping Your Debit Card Safer?

Yes! Contactless payment, or tapping, is safer, especially when it comes to Skimmer scams because you don’t have to insert your card into a machine.

Does Getting a New Debit Card Change Your Routing and Account Number?

No, a new debit card does not change your bank account or routing number. It just changes your card number