Cardholder Advice

Keeping your cards safe: top tips

To minimise the chances of becoming a victim of card fraud:

Look after your cards and card details at all times.
Try not to let your card out of your sight when making a transaction.
Never leave your cards unattended, e.g. in a bag, briefcase or jacket pocket in a public place.
Check receipts against statements carefully. If you find an unfamiliar transaction, contact your card company immediately.
Store your statements, receipts and documents that contain information relating to your financial affairs safely and destroy or preferably shred them when you dispose of them.
Sign any new cards as soon as they arrive.
Cut expired cards through the chip first and then the magnetic stripe.
Pay attention to card expiry dates. If your replacement card hasn't arrived call your bank or building society to check the status of your new card.

Ensure that you are the only person that knows your PIN. Your bank or the police will never phone you and ask you to disclose it. Never write it down or record it.
When entering your PIN use your free hand and your body to shield the number from prying eyes or hidden cameras. If you think someone has seen your PIN you can change it at a cash machine or by contacting your bank.
Memorise your PIN and destroy any paper notification as soon as you receive it. If the PIN you are given is difficult to remember, change it to something more memorable.