Debit Cards Pose Risks

Gas stations and online shopping are two of the most dangerous places to use debit cards, Consumer 10’s Kurt Ludlow reported on Tuesday.
 
Debit cards and credit cards do not work the same way, and if someone steals credit card information, the charges can be easily disputed, Ludlow reported.
 
Debit card thefts are harder to dispute.
 
Abdul Abadallah said that he does not take chances, especially at gas stations, where credit card theft devices, called skimmers, have been found.
 
“It’s basically up to you to protect your own stuff, and that’s what I do,” Abadallah said.
 
Experts at Bankrate.com said that outdoor ATM machines also are risky.  In fact, skimmers have been found on several bank ATMs in Central Ohio over the past month.  Experts advise using indoor ATMS when possible.
 
Bankrate officials said that online shopping is the riskiest place to use debit cards, because there are a number of opportunities for information to be stolen from a virus, malware and breaches of merchants’ databases.
 
“I’ve heard of those scams,” gas station owner Chad Rasul said. “I think the basic thing is to, if you can, keep track of your accounts online, and see all of your activity. The second it happens, when you call them, VISA or Mastercard, always pay you back.”
 
Credit card users may be reimbursed quickly, but it can take months for debit card users to be reimbursed, Ludlow reported.
 
Banks can hold users liable for the fees if they do not notify banks of fraudulent activity within two days, Ludlow reported.
 
Experts recommend paying close attention to bank statements.

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