What should I do if I discover that my credit card was fraudulently used?
  1. Report the incident as soon as it is discovered. Timely reporting will assist the detective in obtaining evidence.
  2. Immediately contact your financial institution and cancel your account. Many financial institutions have specialists that will assist you. If one is provided, be sure to obtain their contact information. Make sure you follow up with them in writing. You may be asked to complete an affidavit of fraud which will be provided by them.
  3. Send a certified letter to the financial institution advising them of the fraudulent transaction.
  4. Request that any response be in writing and keep copies of any correspondence.
  5. File a police report with the appropriate jurisdiction.
  6. Contact the three credit bureaus listed below. Place a Fraud Alert on your credit report. Upon doing so, creditors are required to verify the identity of a person claiming to be you, before extending any credit to them.

Show All Answers

1. What is credit card theft?
2. What is credit card fraud?
3. What are some examples of credit card theft and fraud?
4. What is not a credit card theft or fraud?
5. What should I do if I discover that my credit card was fraudulently used?
6. How do I protect myself from becoming a victim of credit card theft or fraud?