Protecting Credit Cards

To help protect yourself against credit card fraud:

• Avoid leaving credit cards in a locker in a public place or gym, even if it can be locked.
• Don't leave credit cards in a hotel room. Use the hotel safe or carry them with you.
• Only travel with cards that you intend to use.
• Never lend your credit card to anybody.
• Sign new cards as soon as they are received.
• At home, keep cards out of sight to prevent unauthorized use by visitors.
• Attempt to keep your credit card in view after you give it to a clerk.
• Retrieve your card promptly after using it and check to make sure your own card is returned.
• Examine each sales draft before signing to ensure the amount is correct.
• Use caution when giving your credit card number over the phone. If you did not initiate the call, ensure that you are dealing with a reputable company.
• Do not give your credit card number to callers who tell you that you have won a prize, gift or trip.
• Report lost or stolen cards to the credit card issuer immediately. Further information is available by consulting the Government of Canada web site  regarding lost or stolen cards.
• Make a list of your credit card account numbers and card issuer phone numbers to assist in the prompt reporting of lost or stolen cards.
• Keep all credit card receipts and check them against your monthly statement. Promptly report any discrepancies to the card issuer.

Information on how to check your credit report can be obtained by contacting: Equifax Canada 1-877-323-2598;  and Trans Union Canada 1-800-663-9980. 

You should also submit a report with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre  which is operated by the Competition Bureau, RCMP and OPP.  The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre tracks trends in fraud nation wide and is the national call centre for mass marketing fraud and identity theft.