Card fraud is a major problem in the U.K and it is on the increase. A report in 2006, by Guardian Unlimited, stated that ‘Britain was the card fraud capital of Europe’. In 2006, fraud in the United Kingdom was estimated at £428 million.

Many in Britain had suffered at the hands of debit and credit card fraud. It had emerged that ‘Almost 20% of the adult population, equivalent to more than seven million people, have fallen victim to card fraud’ according to the European Security Transport Association (Esta). Since these figures were released much has been done to rectify credit/debit card procedures and educate those adults that use their card(s) regularly.

Credit/debit card fraud has also had a major effect across the pond in the U.S. The city of Boston has arrested 11 people for stealing up to $0 million credit/debit card numbers they obtained by hacking into the computers of 9 major U.S retailers. The technology they used not only stole credit/debit card numbers, but also password and account information. The stolen numbers were then encoded and put onto blank cards and used to withdraw cash from various ATM’s.

The US Attorney for the District of Massachusetts Michael Sullivan said that Consumers, companies and governments from around the world must further develop ways to protect our sensitive personal and business information.

This is becoming a common case. Identity theft is a touchy subject. While many state that large companies could be doing more to ensure our identities are not stolen or mis-used, many think that the individual could be doing more to protect themselves and their money.

Many cardholders and consumers make simple mistakes such as writing their pin codes and passwords down. These are also usually kept within their wallets or handbags. Unfortunately, this means that if this handbag or wallet were to be stolen or mis-laid, a criminal would have free access to all their money and personal information.

Those who frequently use the Internet are warned of the dangers of using on-line shopping websites that are not secured as important information can also be obtained by hackers via thus route.

Education and advice in protecting your identity and preventing credit or debit card fraud is easily accessible. On-line company ‘Card Watch’ provide simple information and advice. They also provide training (also on-line) for the public and companies to help increase card security. There is also information on how to safely use the Internet when shopping on-line.

Many popular banks are now offering professional protection against credit/debit card fraud and identity theft. With this package, banks will usually monitor your card and look out for any unusual activity or spending. They will contact you if they suspect that anything untoward is occurring with your card. Many banks will offer a service where you can claim back any money spent without your knowledge or consent. However the cardholder will still be held liable if they, at any time, provided access to the card and/or pin codes.

Speaking to your card provider about any protection packages that they may offer is a good start in protecting yourself against credit and debit card fraud.