MESA COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
FRAUD ALERT
Credit Card Fraud & Cell Phones
What is a Credit Card Fraud? Credit card fraud is a wide-ranging term for theft and fraud committed using a credit card or any similar payment mechanism as a fraudulent source of funds. The unauthorized and illegal use of a credit card to make a purchase. How is Credit Card Fraud committed? Credit card fraud is committed by several different methods. One of the newer methods of committing credit card fraud is by taking a picture of the credit card with a cell phone. This typically happens when the cashier takes your card for payment and walks away, at a restaurant for example. They can take a picture of your card, front and back, with their cell phone and use or sell the information later. What can I do to prevent this fraud from happening to me? Keep an eye on your card during the transaction, and get it back as quickly as possible; sign your cards as soon as they arrive; carry your cards separately from your wallet, in a zippered compartment, a business card holder, or another small pouch; keep a record of your account numbers, their expiration dates, and the phone number and address of each company in a secure place; void incorrect receipts; destroy all carbons; save receipts to compare with billing statements; open bills promptly and reconcile accounts monthly, just as you would your checking account; report any questionable charges promptly and in writing to the card issuer; notify card companies in advance of a change in address. Don’t lend your card(s) to anyone; don’t leave cards or receipts lying around; don’t sign a blank receipt; and don’t give out your account number over the phone unless you’re making the call to a company you know is reputable. If you have questions about a company, check it out with you local consumer protection office or Better Business Bureau. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues, visit or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP. This information was found on the following website: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/cards.shtm **There have been no cases of credit card fraud filed with the Sheriff’s Office, where a person became a victim because their card was stolen through a camera phone. This is a prevention and educational Fraud Alert only.** To report a Fraud in Mesa County, contact: Mesa County Sheriff’s Office Main Number at 970-244-3500