Question
I have used my Master card for almost hundred restaurant. Every time they bill they took my credit card and come back with a receipt for my signature. I also used this card for online transaction.
My question is: If the restaurant has copy the information on the card of mine and use it for online shopping, will they be able to do that? If so, how can I prevent it?
I think this is the stupid question, but any help would appreciated. Thanks
Chamnane
Answer
The best thing you can do is to review your statement to see if there are charges you did not make!
A few years ago on a Mastercard I was not using a Florida restaurant charge of about $7 appeared. The next month another charge for the about the same amount appeared from the same restaurant. I was not in Florida at either time and never in that restaurant. Called the credit card company and got the charges removed.
Be alert! You are your own first line defense against false charges.
Answer
There are a few solutions.
1. CCV verification... that three digit code at the back of your card.
2. SECURE CODE by MC or Verified by Visa.. check their websites for more info.
Answer
cc readers are pretty cheap nowdays - there have been reports on the news of thieves getting jobs in resutrants or other locations where your card leaves your sight and just running it through a small reader - they can then reprint you magnetic stripe data onto a new card and use it where they want.
use online bills and check regularly throught the month for unusual activity - letting the CC company know early is better than waiting until the end of the month