Credit Card fraud is a growing trend which is moving from large town centres, where precautions are taken into smaller shopping areas and rural shops which are perceived as easier targets.

 

To help reduce the chances of your business becoming a victim you can take some precautions.

 

The premier website devoted to credit card fraud is Cardwatch. A wide variety of detailed advice is available on this site.

 

Some basic precautions include:

 

Mastercard /Visa

Check that the first four digits of the embossed card number are printed in small characters above or below it. If the four digits are missing or do not match, the card is counterfeit.

Look for the unique 'MC' on MasterCard's and the 'flying V' on Visa cards after the expiry date – the special printing is difficult to copy. This means that counterfeiters often leave these features off completely, or they use standard typeface 'MC' and 'V'.

 

American Express

There must be a four digit security code printed above the card number on the right hand front of the card – these digits will not be the same as the first four embossed numbers of the main card number. If the security code is missing, the card is counterfeit.

Visa Electron cards do not carry the 'flying V'

security feature.

 

All cards

Check that the card number on the card matches the

number on the till print-out. If they don't match, the card

is counterfeit.

 

Suspicious card? 

• Seize the card and check it out by telephone
• If the check reveals that the card is stolen don't give the card back for any reason
• Fingerprints may be present so don't touch the card more then required and put it in a paper bag. Be careful as your fingers may destroy the evidence.
• If you have a CCTV systems protect any footage.
• If the offender runs of make a note of his description and if you see a vehicle takes the index number and details.

Cheque Fraud

Although cheque fraud is not as common as it used to be it still takes place.

Thieves use stolen or counterfeit cheques or bankers drafts for goods. Often a bank guarantee card is stolen at the same time as a cheque book. Detection can only be made by a varying signature or circumstances surrounding the use and sale.

 

Too good to be true?

If you have an offer that is too good to be true then it probably is. Check that offer more carefully as it sounds that a conman is at work and the target is you!