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Better Business Bureau of Acadiana

BBB: Check your credit card statement to avoid the $9 scam

Better Business Bureau of Acadiana is alerting consumers to be on the lookout for a new credit card scam.

The scam is perpetrated by thieves stealing credit card numbers then charging small amounts of money that could go undetected by consumers, in this case, $9.

Scammers bank on the fact that many consumers don't check their credit card statements carefully. Don't fall for it. Review your recent statements for unexplained charges of $9.84 and contest them with your bank or credit card issuer. A customer service number is generally located on the back of the card.

How the Scam Works:   

Consumers have reported finding strange charges of $9.84 on credit card statements. The source listed on the bill is usually an unfamiliar website.

Consumers investigating the web address find it's not the business website but a generic landing page that claims to offer "Customer Support." The text promises to "refund 100% of your last payment" and provides a phone number and email address. 

Victims report calling the "customer support" site and receiving verbal confirmation that the charge would be canceled.  However, don't take the scammers at their word. Contact your bank to report the charges and request a new credit card.

Card information has been compromised and it is likely scammers will be back for more, so be sure to have the credit card number changed.

BBB offers these tips to reduce your risk of credit card fraud:

·         Report lost cards and incorrect charges promptly. In the United States and Canada if your credit card is lost, stolen, or used without your permission, you may be responsible for up to $50. If you report the loss before the card is used, you're not responsible for any unauthorized charges.  In addition, many cardholders are protected by zero liability policies set in place by credit card companies.

·         Request a new card if you notice unauthorized charges. Fraudulent charges mean your card information has been compromised. Be on the safe side and request a new card.

·         Never lend your card. And don't leave your cards, statements and receipts laying around your home, car or office.

·         Never sign a blank charge slip. Draw lines through blank spaces on charge slips above the total so the amount can't be changed.

·         Use caution when ordering online or over the phone. Always be cautious about disclosing your account number on the telephone or online unless you know the person you're dealing with represents a reputable company.

·         Start with Trust®. Check out the business with BBB before doing business. Before giving any company your personal or financial information, review the business on the BBB website. And remember, if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

The BBB of Acadiana works for a trustworthy marketplace by maintaining standards for truthful advertising, investigating and exposing fraud against consumers and businesses. Find information at bbb.org or call (337) 981-3497 24 hours a day for information on businesses throughout North America.

 

The BBB of Acadiana services the parishes of Acadia, Evangeline, Iberia, Lafayette, St. Martin, St. Landry and Vermilion.

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