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Credit card number theft Print E-mail
Similar to other schemes, this is a scam designed to convince you to give up your credit card number over the phone or via e-mail.

This allows an unauthorized person to use your card and run up illegal charges. Usually, you will receive a phone call or e-mail from someone masquerading as a representative from a legitimate company you might normally do business with. The person will try to convince you they need your credit card number to check your account.



How to protect yourself: Treat your credit card and your credit card numbers like they were cash. Be suspicious and ask lots of questions; just hang up or don't respond to the e-mail.

Most legitimate companies do not need your credit card number; they already have it. The only time you should provide your credit card number is when you are actually buying something from a trusted company.

Also, remember to check your credit annually through one or more of the major credit bureaus.