Protecting your Business from Credit Card Fraud.
The use of stolen credit cards by criminals is still increasing. On many occasions this
can be reduced in your business by training your staff to be alert to some of the common signs that this activity is taking place.
Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Purchases that are made without any regard to size, colour, style, price or quantity. this maybe a sign that the goods are just going to be resold quickly for cash.
- Refuses clothing alterations particularly where this is included in the price of the goods.
- Makes some purchases then returns later and makes further purchases. - No other Identification with them.
- Takes the credit card from their pocket rather than a wallet or purse. - Standard of dress is poor but purchases expensive items.
- Talkative and changes their mind.This may show them as slightly nervous
- Cannot make up their mind to upset the sales person who may hurry the deal to get rid of the customer.
- Arrives into the store just on closing time.This can work as a distraction of the person serving them.
- Makes large item purchases and insists on taking it with them rather than having it delivered.
If in doubt phone your bank for authority and quickly. Many banks will reward you for recovering a stolen card.Credit card fraud is more common in harder times, but taking these precautions will help to safeguard your business.
Hellen Riley-Tombs is Corporate Solicitor for DebtForce a Debt Collection Agency based in New Zealand with experience spanning 30 years.
