Most Common Credit Card Scams & How to Avoid Them
Credit card scammers use texts, calls, emails, skimmers, and mail theft to steal money and identities. Learn the latest schemes, easy red flags, and step‑by‑step ways to prevent and recover.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts
About this scam type
Credit card scams often involve scammers pretending to be banks, service providers, or government agencies to trick you into revealing your card details, one-time passcodes, or other sensitive information. They use various tactics like phishing emails, smishing texts, phone calls, or physical devices to capture your information and steal money or commit identity theft.
How scammers contact victims
Text messages are the leading channel for credit card scams in 2024 and 2025. Scammers use urgent or alarming language to trick victims into revealing card numbers, passcodes, or clicking on fraudulent links. Texts are easy for scammers to send en masse, and links in texts are especially risky for mobile users.
Who is most at risk
Older adults and family caregivers are top targets due to high rates of phone and text fraud, and the increased value tied to their credit and accounts. Seniors are more likely to trust official-sounding messages and can be unfamiliar with the latest scam tactics, making targeted education and proactive monitoring crucial.
Understanding the risk level
The risk of financial loss and identity theft from credit card scams is high, but quick reporting can limit your liability. Federal law (FCBA) limits your loss to $50 if you report unauthorized charges promptly. Card networks usually offer zero liability if you act fast. Ignoring scams risks much larger losses and credit damage.
Most Common Credit Card Scams
How it works: Scammers send fake bank alert texts claiming your card is locked or there's suspicious activity. The text prompts you to call a fake number, click a link, or provide your full card details and one-time passcode (OTP). Criminals use collected information to enroll your card in digital wallets and spend rapidly, often before you notice. Victims may be pressured to ignore legitimate app warnings.
Actual Scam Text (2024)
Notice 0791 from [Bank]. Your card is locked. Call 855-632-#### to unlock. Typical Variation
Unusual activity detected. Verify your account. https://secure-####.com Red Flag Signs:
- • Urgent claims your card is locked or there are false charges
- • Unknown callback numbers or short web links
- • Requests for your full card number, security code, or passcode
- • Pressure to ignore built-in app warnings or security alerts
How it works: Scammers trick you into sharing your card info or one-time code through a fake phone system (IVR) or phishing text, then use this info to add your card to a mobile wallet on their device. You may get real 'card added to wallet' alerts after the fact, but the damage is done quickly as they make purchases right away.
Phishing Call Script
Please enter your full card number and PIN to verify your account. Legit Notification Triggered by Scam
Your card was added to Apple Pay. Red Flag Signs:
- • Unexpected texts saying your card is locked with a callback number
- • Requests for one-time codes or wallet enrollment codes
- • You receive real alerts about new wallet activity that you did not authorize
How it works: You'll receive a text claiming you have an unpaid toll, parking ticket, or delivery fee, with a link to pay a small amount. The link opens a fake payment page designed to steal your card info and any security codes you enter. These scams are widespread and can lead to rapid losses.
Common Scam Text
Unpaid toll: Pay $3.25 to avoid a fine. http://pay-toll-####.info Red Flag Signs:
- • You receive messages about tolls, deliveries, or services you don't use
- • Web addresses are misspelled, shortened, or suspicious
- • You’re asked to enter card details or OTP on a site that doesn’t look official
How it works: Scammers attach hidden skimming or shimming devices to card readers at gas pumps, ATMs, or store checkouts. These devices steal your card data (and sometimes PIN) when you swipe or insert your card. Stolen data is then used to make fake cards or online purchases.
Real-World Warning
Authorities found a Bluetooth skimmer fitted inside an outdoor gas pump reader. Red Flag Signs:
- • Card slot feels loose or looks misaligned
- • Plastic overlays or extra parts on the reader
- • Tiny pinhole cameras aimed at the keypad
- • Outdoor, unattended, or after-hours card readers
How it works: Thieves steal new or replacement cards directly from your mailbox, then activate and use them. Sometimes they request credit limit increases or commit further fraud before you realize your card was stolen in the mail.
USPS Mail Thefts (DOJ 2024)
Criminals used stolen USPS keys to access mailboxes and intercepted mailed credit cards. Red Flag Signs:
- • You’re waiting for a new card that never arrives
- • Unexpected inquiries or new accounts on your credit report
- • News of mail or postal key thefts in your area
How it works: Scammers posing as debt-relief experts, banks, or even government agencies offer to wipe out or reduce your credit card debt—usually for an illegal upfront fee. Their real goal is to collect payment and steal sensitive info like your bank logins or Social Security number.
Robocall Script
We work with your bank to reduce your credit card debt by 75%. Press 1 to speak to an agent. Red Flag Signs:
- • Any upfront fee for debt ‘relief’
- • Pressure to stop paying your credit cards
- • Requests for your online banking login or Social Security number
- • Unsolicited phone calls or robocalls making big promises
Red Flags & Warning Signs
Top 5 Phrases Scammers Use
- 1 "Your card is locked. Call now."
Scammers want to alarm you so you act without thinking.
- 2 "Unusual activity detected. Verify your account."
Creates false urgency so you’ll share personal details quickly.
- 3 "Press 1 to claim your refund."
Pushes you to act on impulse and interact with a scammer.
- 4 "Add this code to secure your account."
Tricks you into sharing your one-time passcode, which real banks never ask for.
- 5 "We work with your bank to erase your debt."
Pretends to be an official offer, but no real company provides this service.
Scam Warning Signs
- Unfamiliar phone numbers or linksLegitimate banks use known contact numbers or official domains.
- Requests for passcodes, pins, or full card infoBanks will never ask for these by phone or text.
- Spelling errors or odd-looking short linksTypos and shortened URLs are common scam giveaways.
- High-pressure or urgent languageScammers want you to ignore warnings and act fast.
- Loose or damaged card readersPhysical tampering is a red flag for skimming devices.
- Surprise subscription auto-renewalsScammers may sign you up for unwanted subscriptions.
Legitimate Communications
- Uses your real name or partial account infoBanks have access to your information and address you correctly.
- Never asks for passcodes or pins by phone/textAuthentic messages will never request this.
- Directs you to call the number on your cardCard issuers want you to use official channels.
- Consistent sender domain or brandingLegitimate communications are visually consistent and professional.
- Allows you to confirm in app without sharing codesYou can verify alerts or lock your card yourself with your banking app.
How to Protect Yourself
Follow these practical steps to prevent credit card scams and protect your finances and family.
- 1. Never Respond to Unsolicited Alerts
If you get a text, call, or email claiming card trouble, do not click or call back. Always contact your card issuer using the phone number on the back of your card or the official bank app.
Add a trusted family member as a contact for alerts to get duplicate notifications in case you miss something.
- 2. Set Up Alerts and Card Controls
Turn on activity notifications for every transaction, new payees, and digital wallet enrollments. Use mobile or online banking apps to instantly lock or unlock your card.
- 3. Pay With Chip or Tap and Inspect Card Readers
Always use chip or contactless payment when possible. Check the card reader for anything loose, misaligned, or covered with extra plastic. If it looks odd, do not use it.
- 4. Protect Your Mail
Bring mail in as soon as possible, and avoid leaving outgoing mail overnight. Use USPS Informed Delivery to track expected cards and report missing mail.
- 5. Monitor Credit Regularly for Free
Check your credit reports weekly (free at AnnualCreditReport.com). Look for new accounts or credit inquiries you do not recognize.
Review statements each month and look closely for anything unfamiliar.
- 6. Know and Use Your Legal Protections
Report unauthorized charges right away. The Fair Credit Billing Act gives you the right to dispute charges in writing within 60 days. Prompt reporting limits your loss and often gets you zero liability.
- 7. Be Skeptical of Debt Relief Pitches
Real help never comes with an upfront fee. It is illegal for anyone to charge before delivering debt relief, and banks or governments will never make cold calls offering to erase debt.
Stay ahead of scams and monitor your credit and alerts automatically with Lifeguard's all-in-one digital safety platform.
What to Do If You're a Victim
Take these immediate steps if you suspect your card or information has been stolen, and know that recovery is possible.
- 1. Call Your Card Issuer's Number (On Card) Right Away (Do immediately)
Freeze or replace your card immediately. Ask about unauthorized transactions and request removal from any digital wallets. Review recent activity for charges you do not recognize.
- 2. Change Passwords and Secure Your Accounts (Do immediately)
Change your bank and email passwords right away. Check your account for any unknown devices or logins, and remove anything unfamiliar. Notify your bank if you gave out any codes.
- 3. If Mail Was Stolen, Notify USPS Inspection Service (Do immediately)
Report mail theft online or call 877-876-2455. Provide details about missing cards or suspicious activity.
- 4. Dispute Frauds in Writing (Within 60 Days) (Within 24 hours)
Send a dispute letter to your card issuer’s billing inquiries address. Do this within 60 days after the statement date showing unauthorized charges. Keep copies.
- 5. Place a Fraud Alert and Monitor Credit (Within 24 hours)
Contact any credit bureau to place a free fraud alert. Get weekly credit reports to check for unknown accounts. Consider a credit freeze for stronger protection.
- 6. Report to Authorities and Get a Recovery Plan (Within 24 hours)
Report online scams to FBI IC3, mail crimes to USPS, general fraud to the FTC, or identity misuse at IdentityTheft.gov. This can help with recovery and may stop further damage.
- 7. Update Autopays and Document All Actions
Update subscription payments or bill autopays with your new card. Document all calls, letters, screenshots, and police or postal case numbers. Use Click-to-Cancel for unwanted subscriptions.
For more resources, see the IdentityTheft.gov recovery guide, the USPS Inspection Service, and official FTC fraud reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Contactless cards use dynamic security codes for each transaction and card networks offer zero liability when you report unauthorized activity quickly.
Federal law (FCBA) limits your loss to $50 for unauthorized use, but most networks offer zero liability if you report quickly. Always notify your issuer right away.
Credit cards have better dispute protections than debit. If you use a debit card at a risky device, run it as credit so you don't enter your PIN.
Look for card readers that are loose, misaligned, or have odd attachments. Shield your PIN entry and prefer indoor readers or contactless tap.
Never click links or call back unknown numbers. Delete the message and contact your bank using the number on your card or your official banking app.
Call your card issuer right away to cancel and reissue your card. Report suspected mail theft to the USPS Inspection Service and monitor your credit.
Use the Click-to-Cancel feature on the merchant’s website, and dispute any unauthorized charges promptly with your card issuer.
Report online fraud to the FBI IC3, mail-related scams to USPS Inspection Service, general fraud to the FTC, and identity theft to IdentityTheft.gov.
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