Card Not Present Fraud

This is now the largest type of card fraud in the UK.  To combat CNP fraud most cards now have a 3 digit security number on the reverse which you have to quote when using the card online, on the phone or with mail order. Most retailers refuse to accept the card without this so it means that the theft of credit card number databases will not be as valuable to criminals as they can’t use them without the security code.

It is perpetrated by criminals who obtain your card details through the theft of your card details from discarded receipts or by copying down your details during a transaction.

Advice

• Only divulge your 3 digit security code to reputable companies
• Avoid companies who ask for your card details on an order form that you are posting to them.  There is always a risk that the order form may be intercepted and your card skimmed
• When buying online make sure that the address line begins with https:// rather than the usual http://.  The “s” indicates a safe site.  Look also for a picture of a small padlock or an unbroken key in the bottom right corner of the browser window
• Consider using a separate credit card for your online purchases and reduce the credit limit on it to what you think you will need.  This limits your risk and makes it easier for you to check your online purchases
• Make sure you log off any site properly, don’t just close the browser window
• Do not make online purchases from Internet Cafes or WiFi Hotspots or public computers