So, the latest round began with Target. It continued with upscale retailer Nieman Marcus. The latest shoe to drop is that Michaels, the 1000-store crafting outlet, has announced a breach.
But don’t worry. Now that there’s all this attention being paid, it won’t happen any more. Right. So what can you do? Well, your friendly federal government has a few tips (funny how “Don’t Panic” is always number one) in a file you can download HERE.
Here are some highlights:
- Don’t panic. (see?)
- Monitor accounts for unauthorized charges or debits
- Alert your bank or card provider immediately if fraud is suspected
- Follow up with the bank or card provider and maintain records
- Avoid scams that ask for personal information over email or by phone
Another couple of useful notes:
For credit cards : If your account number, not your physical credit card, has been stolen, you are not responsible for unauthorized charges under federal law.
For debit cards: If an unauthorized transaction appears on your statement (but your card or PIN has not been lost or stolen), under federal law you will not be liable for the debit if you report it within 60 days after your account statement is sent to you.
There’s a lot more at the website, so check it out! How about you? Are you nervous about this? Ever been victimized, or has someone you know? How did you fix it? Let us know over at the MindField Online Facebook page!