In the last two series of articles I spoke about debit identity theft and how to prevent it. This is the last story of the series.

DO be alert when there is an opportunity for people to look over your shoulder to track your PIN number. Also, seriously consider the pros and cons before you utilize your debit card at a restaurant, where the server takes the card and you can’t actually see him swipe it, or at gas stations, where surveillance cameras can record you punching in your PIN.

Don’t blindly use your debit card for shopping online. Make sure you are only utilizing a debit card when you shop at well established, trusted sellers. If you do not know a site, before you enter your debit card number, look at the bottom of the web page for security seals from companies like PCI Compliance, Truste, or VeriSign. Keep your eyes peeled though. A number of fake sites will only cut and paste logos. Click on the link for the logo if you are not one hundred percent sure. If it is the real deal it will direct you to that website’s security verification.

The Federal Trade Commission has come up with new regulations for merchants that take effect June 1st that will necessitate that financial institutions set up checks that will set off a response if a customer’s card is used illegally. This new rule, commonly called the “red flag rule” should be of help, but thieves are clever and fraudulent charges can sometimes make their way out of the woodwork.

Being a victim of debit card theft has the capacity to change the way people purchase in the future. Some identity theft victims assert that they only pay by cash, check or credit card. Not having a debit card can be a hassle at times, especially if it has to do with writing a check and having it approved. But it might just be worth your peace of mind. It is always a wise idea to be savvy about your finances.

Rapid Recovery Solution is a medical debt collection company.