3 Ways Credit Cards Get Hacked

In our day and age where digital information is easily accessed, hackers have free reign over our credit card information. There are many measures to prevent credit card fraud, but you may be wondering how your information is stolen in the first place. Here is a small glimpse into how your credit card may be hacked.

1. Credit card skimming

The most common way hackers steal credit card information is through skimming. Plastic tools called “skimmers” can be attached to credit card readers. When you swipe your card through the reader, skimmers pick up your information, which can be sent to the thief or read when the thief retrieves the skimmer. Hackers can easily steal your credit card information and use it to make fraudulent purchases, especially when some skimmers fit snugly into the reader. The best way to catch this type of fraud is to avoid using credit cards in non-populated areas and to check your statements for unauthorized transactions often.

2. Fraudulent phone calls and emails

Another way hackers can access your information is through fraudulent means of contact. We’ve all received phone calls from people trying to sell us some product or offer us a seemingly unreal deal. Many times, these hackers will ask for a payment in advance, encouraging you to disclose personal information. Giving out private information to any stranger is unadvised, and you should decline any phone calls of this nature.

Similarly, hackers may email you posing as your credit card company to gain information. Many times, these hackers may say there is suspicious activity on your card, or that they need to confirm some information. In this case, call your bank to verify if there is a real problem with your card. Never willingly disclose private information to any source without confirmation, no matter how legitimate they look.

3. Computer viruses

Credit card hackers can also retrieve your information from computer viruses. When you visit a dangerous website, viruses can be downloaded to your computer and leave you vulnerable to criminal exposure. Hackers can access your computer’s data and grab your credit card information. These viruses vary in levels of danger and can go as far as to steal your identity. To prevent viruses, avoid using public computers and visiting unfamiliar shopping sites. Use trustworthy sources to ensure that your data is in safe hands.

Takeaways:

With technology enabling data to be easily shared, hackers are able to quickly steal data. Luckily, technology also allows banks and credit card issuers to better protect your information. With these common hack strategies in mind, you can guard yourself more against credit card fraud.