Finance Australia :: Articles

Credit Cards: Identity Theft and Credit Protection

How can I protect myself from identity theft and credit card fraud?

Credit Cards: Identity Theft and Credit Protection
Credit card fraud and identity theft have become widespread not only on the Internet but offline as well. Learn how to avoid these risks and protect your identity as well as your finances or credit line.

According to the US Federal Trade Commission, there are approximately nine million Americans that experience identity theft every year.

Identity theft happens when an unauthorized person takes control of your personal information, including your social security number and your credit card details, and uses it for his or her own interests.

Many companies are quick to respond to these instances. They now offer services and products that can monitor the use of your card, protect your identity, and reimburse the lost funds.

Credit Card Fraud vs. Identity Theft

Identity theft is not the same as credit card fraud although they are often connected to each other.

Debt Stressed?
Image for Debt Stressed?If you're struggling to pay your debts and covering living expenses, we're here to help. Through our national panel of Debt Management specialists, we can help customers with $10k or more in debt by consolidating your existing loans, stopping Debt collectors from contacting you and re-negotiating repayments on your terms!

Identity theft is what happens when a criminal takes your identity and performs transactions with your card.

Usually, there is financial motivation with the guise, such as purchasing items online using your name.

Most thieves today can change your credit information, make new accounts, and even use your ID to commit crimes.

On the other hand, credit fraud starts when someone has stolen your card.

Once they have your credit card number, they can then use it to purchase online or even in person.

They typically resell the goods in order for them to obtain cash. Oftentimes, credit fraud leads to identity theft.

Do You Need Identity Theft Protection?

Everyone with a credit card needs protection against identity theft.

While there are tools that can be bought to help keep you safe from this criminal act, there are measures that you can do that don't cost money.

Practice them first before you resort to services with fees.

Here are some of the things that you can do to help safeguard your card and your identity:

  • Protect your information when performing online purchases.

Many people are now buying stuff online.

While this is convenient, there are risks that may be encountered if you are not careful.

As a matter of fact, it is easier for identity thieves to get your information online.

Make sure that you don't store your passwords and log in information, especially when you use a public computer.

Keep away from phishing tricks.

Phishing scams mimic online shopping websites and banks so that they look legitimate and can get your credit card account.

  • Check your credit card bills.

If there are portions in your statement that seem suspicious to you or if you see purchases that you didn't do, contact your creditor immediately.

  • Shred financial documents.

This is pretty easy, but most people tend to throw away their documents without even shredding them.

Desperate thieves will do anything to get your bank and personal information to use it for their crimes.

  • Beware of multiple swipes.

Card readers sometimes don't read the magnetic stripe in your card so merchants swipe again.

However, there are instances when the second swipe will be used to duplicate the information from your card.

Always ask for a reason why your card has been swiped more than once.

Credit cards usually come with identity theft protection. They can monitor your activities and may report to you in case there are detected changes.

While these are useful, it always pays to be a vigilant cardholder by performing the DIY methods mentioned above. 

Published: Sunday, 1st Aug 2021
Author: 260


Finance Articles

Maximizing Your Borrowing Power: Strategies for Home Loan Comparison
Maximizing Your Borrowing Power: Strategies for Home Loan Comparison
When you're on the journey to owning your dream home, securing the right home loan is as critical as choosing the perfect location. The benefits of using online home loan calculators can't be overstated, as they wield the power to illuminate the murky depths of mortgage rates, terms, and payments with surprising precision. - read more
The In-Depth Guide to Boat Loans in Australia: What You Need to Know Before Diving In
The In-Depth Guide to Boat Loans in Australia: What You Need to Know Before Diving In
Australia, with its expansive coastline and spectacular waterways, naturally cultivates a rich culture of marine enthusiasts. Imagine the salty breeze on your face as you slice through waves, the call of seabirds overhead, and the freedom to explore hidden coves and beaches – this is the quintessential Australian boating lifestyle. - read more
The Road to Recovery: How to Rebuild Your Credit for Future Loans
The Road to Recovery: How to Rebuild Your Credit for Future Loans
In today’s economy, a good credit score is more than just a number—it's a pivotal element of financial health that can open doors to necessary funding when it's most needed. Whether it's for purchasing a new home, investing in a business, or obtaining personal loans, a robust credit score in Australia is your ticket to favorable interest rates and loan terms. - read more

Finance News

USD Smile Resurfaces: What It Means for the Australian Dollar
USD Smile Resurfaces: What It Means for the Australian Dollar
22 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
The resurgence of the 'USD smile' is influencing global currency markets, including the Australian dollar (AUD). This concept connects the USD's performance to market risk sentiment and the relative rate advantage. Despite the recent volatility in US banks, the USD has retained its position due to its safe-haven appeal and shifting expectations around the Federal Reserve's monetary policy. - read more
Australia's Economic Shift: Rising Unemployment and Potential Rate Cuts
Australia's Economic Shift: Rising Unemployment and Potential Rate Cuts
22 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
The recent increase in Australia's unemployment rate has highlighted a major labor market shift, with significant implications for economic policy. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows a rise in the unemployment rate to 4.5% as of September, the highest since late 2021, signalling a critical reliance on the non-market sector for job creation. Notably, non-market jobs, largely within government-funded sectors like healthcare and education, now make up an unprecedented 31.5% of the workforce. - read more
Unemployment Climbs to 4.5% in September 2025
Unemployment Climbs to 4.5% in September 2025
21 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
In September 2025, Australia's unemployment rate rose to 4.5%, marking the highest level since November 2021. This increase has sparked discussions about potential interest rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). - read more

Free Loan Eligibility Assessment

Loan Amount:
Postcode:
All quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation. We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Mortgage Broker:
A person or company that acts as an intermediary between borrowers and lenders, but does not lend money directly.