Steps To Take If You've Been Phished

Consumer Advice: What To Do If You've Given Out Your Personal Financial Information

Phishing attacks are growing quite sophisticated and difficult to detect, even for the most technically savvy people. And many people are getting onto the Internet and using email or Web browsers for the first time. As a result, some people are going to continue to be fooled into giving up their personal financial information in response to a phishing email or on a phishing website. If you have been tricked this way, you should assume that you will become a victim of credit card fraud, bank fraud, or identity theft. Below is some advice on what to do if you are in this situation (note - some of this information is specific to United States federal laws):

If you have given out your credit card or check card or ATM card information:

  • Report the theft of this information to the card issuer as quickly as possible. Many companies have toll-free numbers and 24-hour service to deal with such emergencies.
  • Cancel your account and open a new one.
  • Review your billing statements carefully after the loss. If they show any unauthorized charges, it's best to send a letter to the card issuer describing each questionable charge.
  • Credit Card Loss or Fraudulent Charges (FCBA) - Your maximum liability under federal law for unauthorized use of your credit card is $50. If the loss involves your credit card number, but not the card itself, you have no liability for unauthorized use.
  • ATM or Debit Card Loss or Fraudulent Transfers (EFTA) - Your liability under federal law for unauthorized use of your ATM or debit card depends on how quickly you report the loss. You risk unlimited loss if you fail to report an unauthorized transfer within 60 days after your bank statement containing unauthorized use is mailed to you.

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