Fresh warning on card fraud

CONSUMERS using credit cards to buy goods over the internet, fax, phone or mail order face an increasing threat from fraudsters, a new report has warned.

Figures published by the Association of Payment Clearing Services (APACS), an industry body, reveal 'card-not-present' fraud has leapt by more than a third over the last two years, to £109m a year.

Criminals typically get access to card details from discarded receipts or discreetly copy them when the cardholder is paying in a busy bar, restaurant or shops. With the card details and the owner's name, they can then shop by phone or the internet to buy goods.

But despite increasing fraud, cardholders are failing to take basic security precautions when using credit or debit cards. The report found nearly 20% of cardholders have let other people use their card to buy goods over the internet, phone orby mail order.

More than one in three people questioned never shred or burn bank or credit card statements after finishing with them, while nearly 20% of us rarely or never check bank or credit card statements.

Sandra Quinn, spokeswoman for APACS, said: 'Consumers risk falling prey to a £300,000 a day fraud problem because they do not take steps to protect themselves. Internet, mail order, phone and fax transactions can all offer a tempting target for card criminals.'

More than 80% of people are expected to use debit or credit cards for online or telephone based purchases this Christmas.

APACS tips to beat fraud:

Check all statements carefully for any evidence of fraudulent transactions.

Burn or shred card statements and card receipts when you have finished with them.

Don't let your card out of your sight during a transaction.

Don't let anyone use your card or have sight of your card details.