Skimmers at gas stations

[Topspinmo]

I'm I the only one that afraid to use my credit card at gas stations? Reluctant to use it anywhere due to the chance of skimmers and low life employee stealing my information. Just heard on the news this morning skimmers found in lake country. I would think the villages would be gold mine for this illegal activity?

In don't understand why the industry don't go to the European style credit card system that's nearly skim proof. IMO cost is no excuse not to upgrade from this insecure system of the 20 century?

real pain to fill up with cash in this plastic world. I see the day cash will be obsolete. IMO the credit industry or the government should be held responsible for credit card fraud when they won't update unsecured system.

[TNLAKEPANDA]

Why not get a CC with a low limit that you use just to purchase gas or any other item where you are uneasy using a CC. Or you could go inside with your CC. That is a pain and the clerk could copy your card info. It is much more risky caring all that cash around.

[kcrazorbackfan]

I would say this is the perfect time of year for them to come out of the woodwork with it being the "in season" and all the 'birds here.

[Topspinmo]

That still don't prevent them from getting personal information that they can use to make new credit cards. I have my information locked and have to unlock it to create credit.

[rubicon]

buy gas cash cards. also i always shake and pull at the card inserts to see if they are loose

[blueash]

I am not afraid to use my CC at gas stations. If there is ID theft the CC company makes me whole. I have never had an issue with getting a new card and the incorrect charges completely removed. Additionally as should be apparent from the news, CC theft is not just with gas station skimmers it is with any business that accepts credit cards. Target and Home Depot being two of the big ones having issues in recent months. Reasonable caution, check your charges, and as the tee shirts used to say No Fear

[jnieman]

I'm I the only one that afraid to use my credit card at gas stations? Reluctant to use it anywhere due to the chance of skimmers and low life employee stealing my information. Just heard on the news this morning skimmers found in lake country. I would think the villages would be gold mine for this illegal activity?

In don't understand why the industry don't go to the European style credit card system that's nearly skim proof. IMO cost is no excuse not to upgrade from this insecure system of the 20 century?

real pain to fill up with cash in this plastic world. I see the day cash will be obsolete. IMO the credit industry or the government should be held responsible for credit card fraud when they won't update unsecured system.

Not sure if it helps but we buy those $50 shell gas cards from Publix for $40 when they have a coupon so we pretty much always have them. We use those at the pump along with our Shell rewards card and usually get several cents off per gallon.

[TNLAKEPANDA]

Not sure if it helps but we buy those $50 shell gas cards from Publix for $40 when they have a coupon so we pretty much always have them. We use those at the pump along with our Shell rewards card and usually get several cents off per gallon.

That is a great deal... let us know when they are on sale again!

[Bogie Shooter]

That is a great deal... let us know when they are on sale again!

Its in there weekly ad.

[janmcn]

That is a great deal... let us know when they are on sale again!

There is a coupon in this week's Publix flyer for $10 off of a $50 gas card with the purchase of $50 worth of groceries. The coupon expires 11/30, and certain purchases are excluded in the $50 grocery items. If you don't have the flyer, you can see and print in on-line at Publix.com.

[baustgen]

Read in the paper this am that the U.S. is switching to the chip cards in 2015. Should be completed by October.

[village dreamer]

is there something to look for at the gas pump.

[Bruiser1]

That is a great deal... let us know when they are on sale again!


Check your weekly publix flyer (it will be on the front page).

Also Winn Dixie has cents per gallon discounts on many items (food or wine).

It varies between 5-25cents a gallon. Over a months time it can be significant.(you need a Winn Dixie card but that also saves you on other items):gc:

[janmcn]

Read in the paper this am that the U.S. is switching to the chip cards in 2015. Should be completed by October.


Chase is already replacing existing credit cards with chip cards.


is there something to look for at the gas pump.


Pay attention to whether your card is difficult to get in or out of the slot and if it jiggles.

[DonH57]

Whether it's gas pumps or atm's, I always look to see if anything appears to be added to the machine or looks like it doesn't belong there.

[dbussone]

Whether it's gas pumps or atm's, I always look to see if anything appears to be added to the machine or looks like it doesn't belong there.


I don't just look, I try to remove the card reader to see if anything is loose. Nothing should be.

[alemorkam]

That must mean you pay cash when you eat out. The waiter or waitress can easily copy down the CC information in the back room. You use cash for everything? Seems like carrying cash around would be dangerous

[Villages PL]

It doesn't take long to pay cash and the exercise is a bonus. You walk in and stand in line. Typically you only have to wait about 1 or 2 minutes. How long do you wait at a traffic light or in the supermarket?

How much time do you spend looking at your credit card statement to make sure it's accurate?

[Topspinmo]

That must mean you pay cash when you eat out. The waiter or waitress can easily copy down the CC information in the back room. You use cash for everything? Seems like carrying cash around would be dangerous

Only if they have a skimmer, they can't get it out of the computer or off your purchase ticket (not like the old slide carbon paper receipts that left you credit card information on the carbon copy, we learned with that process to get the all the carbon copies). I guess they could add charges, but that would just go to the store. IMO most skimming operations are inside jobs, I sure they have cameras about. IMO employee in on it and cuts the cameras while the skimmer's are installed. IF not wouldn't somebody be reviewing the cameras for trampering or checking the machines?

As far as carrying cash, for me it don't take that much for the places we travel. that's why I have Citzen's account ease of access.

then there the pocket skimmer's that can skim you information as you walk by in you billfold, purse, or inline at the cashier. I guess the copper lined (or metal lined, thin piece like tin foil) credit card pouches or holder prevents this. At least I hope so.

Skimming programs and equipment are sold illegally form Foreign countries along with Blank card with magnetic strips and transferring the information skimmed onto card. Now it can be used anywhere and the bill comes to you. Course this takes about month, buy that time they are long gone.

I bet if you ask someone that got skimmed and their information taking I bet they would tell you they never want to go through that again. This 20 century old tech. was out of date in the 90's. It's bigger problem than we think.

Read all this on the web and news reports over the years so it must be true?

[CFrance]

It doesn't take long to pay cash and the exercise is a bonus. You walk in and stand in line. Typically you only have to wait about 1 or 2 minutes. How long do you wait at a traffic light or in the supermarket?

How much time do you spend looking at your credit card statement to make sure it's accurate?
I don't have to look at my cc statement. I get an email each and every time a charge is posted to my cc, no matter the amount. I set that up online. Also, I have never, ever been held accountable for fraud on any charge card, and it's safer in my opinion than walking around with a lot of cash. I just don't get why people are afraid of fraud on a credit card. Fraud will happen, but you never get stuck for the amount.

Credit cards are a fact of life, make life so much easier, and people should not be afraid to use them. You are much better protected than with checks or cash.

My new Amex arriving soon will be chip and signature. Our new debit cards are chip & sig. Waiting for Visa to step up to the table.

[RedChariot]

I don't have to look at my cc statement. I get an email each and every time a charge is posted to my cc, no matter the amount. I set that up online. Also, I have never, ever been held accountable for fraud on any charge card, and it's safer in my opinion than walking around with a lot of cash. I just don't get why people are afraid of fraud on a credit card. Fraud will happen, but you never get stuck for the amount.

Credit cards are a fact of life, make life so much easier, and people should not be afraid to use them. You are much better protected than with checks or cash.

My new Amex arriving soon will be chip and signature. Our new debit cards are chip & sig. Waiting for Visa to step up to the table.

I understand the chip part. Please explain the signature. Card has your signature?

TIA

[CFrance]

I understand the chip part. Please explain the signature. Card has your signature?

TIA
There are two kinds of chip cards--chip and pin and chip and signature. Europe uses chip and pin, where you have to enter a pin # at point of sale. Most of the US banks are pushing chip and signature (no pin). Chip and pin is more secure if the card is stolen and attempt is made to use it. Also they are more expensive to duplicate.

If you google chip and pin vs chip and signature, there are some articles on which is better and why. Here's one:]]http://krebsonsecurity.com/2014/10/chip-pin-vs-chip-signature/

[JoMar]

I don't have to look at my cc statement. I get an email each and every time a charge is posted to my cc, no matter the amount. I set that up online. Also, I have never, ever been held accountable for fraud on any charge card, and it's safer in my opinion than walking around with a lot of cash. I just don't get why people are afraid of fraud on a credit card. Fraud will happen, but you never get stuck for the amount.

Credit cards are a fact of life, make life so much easier, and people should not be afraid to use them. You are much better protected than with checks or cash.

My new Amex arriving soon will be chip and signature. Our new debit cards are chip & sig. Waiting for Visa to step up to the table.

My wife and I also get a text message on every charge on both our cards.....and it usually shows up before the transaction is completed. Not foolproof but as the other posters have stated, I also am not responsible for anything charged by others.

[memason]

Is anyone using the new ApplePay?

With ApplePay, no one even sees your credit card, card number or anything else.

To me, this seems a very secure technology, but will take years to catch on...

There are some places, in The Villages, that take ApplePay.

[Villages PL]

If credit cards are so care free, how come there are so many hacker stories in the news, like J.C. Penny etc.. J.C. Penny is having a tough time lately because of the sensitive information that was lost.

When something is "new" and better, like new cards, isn't it just a matter of time before crooks figure out how to tap into it?

P.S. The cash in my wallet works perfectly every time and I don't have to check my email after spending. And there's no danger of carrying a lot of cash. Whenever I purchase a big item, which is rare, I pay by check.

[CFrance]

If credit cards are so care free, how come there are so many hacker stories in the news, like J.C. Penny etc.. J.C. Penny is having a tough time lately because of the sensitive information that was lost.

When something is "new" and better, like new cards, isn't it just a matter of time before crooks figure out how to tap into it?

P.S. The cash in my wallet works perfectly every time and I don't have to check my email after spending. And there's no danger of carrying a lot of cash. Whenever I purchase a big item, which is rare, I pay by check.

And your check has a heckuva lot more information on it than your credit card. Nor is your bank going to restore any of the money that's cleaned out of it when some crook takes the routing and account number off your check and cleans you out.

So we can all crawl under a rock and refuse to bring ourselves into the 21st century, or we can trust that we won't be held responsible for the fraud. And we can take precautions such as not establishing "accounts" with online vendors that will be hacked. In the two security breaches that have happened in my life, the company that was hacked provided us free of charge with a year's worth of identity theft protection.

You should not even be using the internet if you're so afraid of your security. Throw your cell phone away too, if you have one. And get your investments back in cash and hide it in your mattress, just in case.

[CFrance]

Is anyone using the new ApplePay?

With ApplePay, no one even sees your credit card, card number or anything else.

To me, this seems a very secure technology, but will take years to catch on...

There are some places, in The Villages, that take ApplePay.
I think it's a good thing, memason. I'd like to see it become available across the board, and for not just Apple.

[Barefoot]

There are two kinds of chip cards--chip and pin and chip and signature. Europe uses chip and pin, where you have to enter a pin # at point of sale. Most of the US banks are pushing chip and signature (no pin). Chip and pin is more secure if the card is stolen and attempt is made to use it. Also they are more expensive to duplicate.

We've had a Canadian Visa chip card for a few years now, no signature required, just a PIN number to enter, very fast.
I always think the USA is ahead of Canada in every way, so I was amazed that we are still asked for a signature here in TV.
Surely Visa will step up soon.

[CFrance]

We've had a Canadian Visa chip card for a few years now, no signature required, just a PIN number to enter, very fast.
I always think the USA is ahead of Canada in every way, so I was amazed that we are still asked for a signature here in TV.
Surely Visa will step up soon.
My understanding is that it's a matter of the US banks and the store vendors not wanting to spend the money to change the antiquated, insecure system.

Bare, when you're at a restaurant in Canada, do they bring a card reader to the table so you can pay your bill without ever having the card be out of your sight? That's another thing common in Europe that should be instituted here as well. But it costs $.

[JoMar]

If credit cards are so care free, how come there are so many hacker stories in the news, like J.C. Penny etc.. J.C. Penny is having a tough time lately because of the sensitive information that was lost.

When something is "new" and better, like new cards, isn't it just a matter of time before crooks figure out how to tap into it?

P.S. The cash in my wallet works perfectly every time and I don't have to check my email after spending. And there's no danger of carrying a lot of cash. Whenever I purchase a big item, which is rare, I pay by check.

We all have our own paranoia's.....if cash works for you who are we to try and change that.

[Barefoot]

Bare, when you're at a restaurant in Canada, do they bring a card reader to the table so you can pay your bill without ever having the card be out of your sight?

Yes, they bring a card reader to the table.

[Villages PL]

And your check has a heckuva lot more information on it than your credit card. Nor is your bank going to restore any of the money that's cleaned out of it when some crook takes the routing and account number off your check and cleans you out.

So the crook goes to my bank and says, "I'd like to withdraw money from this account, here's the routing number. Wouldn't the bank ask to see a driver's license? And if they give him my money, is that my fault?

It sounds frightening but it has never happen to me in 50 years of using checks. And I never heard of it happening to any of my friends or relatives.

So we can all crawl under a rock and refuse to bring ourselves into the 21st century, or we can trust that we won't be held responsible for the fraud. And we can take precautions such as not establishing "accounts" with online vendors that will be hacked. In the two security breaches that have happened in my life, the company that was hacked provided us free of charge with a year's worth of identity theft protection.

Free of charge? Someone paid for it and it wasn't the company. Most likely it was some poor suckers who decided to load up on Christmas gifts and pay later with high interest rates.

You should not even be using the internet if you're so afraid of your security. Throw your cell phone away too, if you have one. And get your investments back in cash and hide it in your mattress, just in case.

No cell phone and no problem with my investments.

[Villages PL]

We all have our own paranoia's.....if cash works for you who are we to try and change that.

Paranoia is a psychotic disorder. I doubt that 51% of Americans suffer from paranoia. I'm in the majority on this.

51% of Americans said they do not intend to use a credit card for their holiday purchases.

Only 43% of Americans plan to pay for most holiday gifts with a credit card. Do they have, "delusions of grandeur?"

6% of Americans are undecided.

This was the result of a new Rasmussen telephone survey. It's in todays Daily Sun on page C10. (12-04-14)

I guess I'm not the only one who's not "in the 21st. century." :)

[Barefoot]

Paranoia is a psychotic disorder. I doubt that 51% of Americans suffer from paranoia. I'm in the majority on this.
51% of Americans said they do not intend to use a credit card for their holiday purchases.

Only 43% of Americans plan to pay for most holiday gifts with a credit card. Do they have, "delusions of grandeur?"
I guess I'm not the only one who's not "in the 21st. century." :)

Does it say that these people don't have credit cards?
Or just that they're planning not to use them for holiday gifts?
Perhaps these people do have credit cards, but are planning to pay cash for gifts for budgeting reasons.
Not because they are paranoid about using credit cards.
Just a thought.

[CFrance]

So the crook goes to my bank and says, "I'd like to withdraw money from this account, here's the routing number. Wouldn't the bank ask to see a driver's license? And if they give him my money, is that my fault?

It sounds frightening but it has never happen to me in 50 years of using checks. And I never heard of it happening to any of my friends or relatives.



Free of charge? Someone paid for it and it wasn't the company. Most likely it was some poor suckers who decided to load up on Christmas gifts and pay later with high interest rates.



No cell phone and no problem with my investments.
Obviously you have never heard of the ease with which someone can dip your check into a solution and erase all the writing, leaving the check intact. Or how easy it is to duplicate the check. Why do you think you can order new checks online using one of those check printing companies by providing your bank information, and someone else can't? Really,do some research.

The fact of the matter is, no hacker has ever been able to get away with fraud on my cc accounts whether someone gave me free identify theft or not. You're just not up on this stuff, VPL.

And in 50 years of using credit cards, I have not laid out one dime due to fraud. I still win, because in year 51 if someone cleans out your bank account, you're skewered. I will never be responsible for a dime of fraud on my cc.

Night night. I'm out.

[JoMar]

Paranoia is a psychotic disorder. I doubt that 51% of Americans suffer from paranoia. I'm in the majority on this.

51% of Americans said they do not intend to use a credit card for their holiday purchases.

Only 43% of Americans plan to pay for most holiday gifts with a credit card. Do they have, "delusions of grandeur?"

6% of Americans are undecided.

This was the result of a new Rasmussen telephone survey. It's in todays Daily Sun on page C10. (12-04-14)

I guess I'm not the only one who's not "in the 21st. century." :)

Wasn't just referring to credit cards......and as I stated earlier, if it works for you then by all means possible, use checks and cash.....but please don't assume that the rest of us that wouldn't consider doing that have some sort of mental defect and that your way is the superior way. Also, who did they call and how many were contacted?

[Villages PL]

Does it say that these people don't have credit cards?
Or just that they're planning not to use them for holiday gifts?
Perhaps these people do have credit cards, but are planning to pay cash for gifts for budgeting reasons.
Not because they are paranoid about using credit cards.

Just a thought.

BTW, I wasn't the one who started using the word "paranoid". I don't think it applies to anyone in this situation.

If I were to use this word the way it's currently being used, I would say, "if they are budgeting by using cash, they must be paranoid about their lack of control to use credit cards wisely." But that would be an incorrect use of the word so I won't use it that way.

[Topspinmo]

I think we're missing the point ? It's about what they do with the skimmed information off the credit card. Which IMO shouldn't be that easy In 2014' 1990 maybe but this problem should of been upgraded or fix years ago.

You know when they skim they make new identities in persons name which only credit block can stop IMO. How many of us have block?

[Villages PL]

Wasn't just referring to credit cards......and as I stated earlier, if it works for you then by all means possible, use checks and cash.....but please don't assume that the rest of us that wouldn't consider doing that have some sort of mental defect and that your way is the superior way. Also, who did they call and how many were contacted?

Holy cow! I never assumed that others have a mental defect if they don't do it my way. You're assuming that I assumed that? And when did I say that my way was superior?

I believe I said something to the effect that cash works just fine, or something like that. And when I use cash I don't have to check my email and I don't have to worry about the accuracy of any statement. So you assume I'm acting superior? I'm simply explaining why I like doing things my way.

I think the superior feelings usually come from the other side, hence you might have heard that those who don't use credit cards are not living in the 21st century. In other words, implying they are behind the times.

[Villages PL]

I think we're missing the point ? It's about what they do with the skimmed information off the credit card. Which IMO shouldn't be that easy In 2014' 1990 maybe but this problem should of been upgraded or fix years ago.

You know when they skim they make new identities in persons name which only credit block can stop IMO. How many of us have block?

I'm glad you brought this up because I don't remember "skimming" being defined and I wasn't sure what it was. So it's the taking of credit card information for the purpose of making new identities.

Let's look at a recent news story which I think is related:

Search: Hundreds of thousands of dollars stolen in Home Depot hacking, report says: "Criminals apparently have already withdrawn hundreds of thousands of dollars from payment cards stolen in the Home Depot credit card breach, according to a new report that says criminals are able to make counterfeit copies of cards that can be used for shopping."

How would "blocking" prevent counterfeit copies from being used?

[Sandtrap328]

Bottom line should be "be aware of your credit card bill each month and resolve any purchase questions immediately".

I really like Citizens First Bank. I have gone there many times to cash a check at the teller window. I always pull out my Villages ID for them, but the teller says it is not necessary as my photo is on their computer screen when they pull up my account information. (of course, Tom Selleck could cash a check in my name, since we look alike.)

[newguyintv]

I'm I the only one that afraid to use my credit card at gas stations? Reluctant to use it anywhere due to the chance of skimmers and low life employee stealing my information. Just heard on the news this morning skimmers found in lake country. I would think the villages would be gold mine for this illegal activity?

In don't understand why the industry don't go to the European style credit card system that's nearly skim proof. IMO cost is no excuse not to upgrade from this insecure system of the 20 century?

real pain to fill up with cash in this plastic world. I see the day cash will be obsolete. IMO the credit industry or the government should be held responsible for credit card fraud when they won't update unsecured system.

Using a Credit Card does not open Pandora's box for skimming like using a Debit card would do. If your CC is comprised the chances are very high that your CC company will notify you of any suspicious usage attempts. Not so with a Debit card which is a instant authorization to withdraw funds from your account. The Debit Card supplier will NOT notify you of suspicious use.

[CFrance]

[QUOTE=Villages PL;977210]I'm glad you brought this up because I don't remember "skimming" being defined and I wasn't sure what it was. So it's the taking of credit card information for the purpose of making new identities.

Let's look at a recent news story which I think is related:

Search: Hundreds of thousands of dollars stolen in Home Depot hacking, report says: "Criminals apparently have already withdrawn hundreds of thousands of dollars from payment cards stolen in the Home Depot credit card breach, according to a new report that says criminals are able to make counterfeit copies of cards that can be used for shopping."

Debit cards extract $ directly from your bank account. You might as well write a check, because once a hacker has that info, he can wipe you out. I still believe cc's are the safest way to go.

You can call or get online to any credit bureau and put a block on the opening of new credit under your name. We have blocks with all three credit reporting agencies. They would notify us if anyone tried to open an account in our name.

My husband and I need a credit score. It determines a higher or lower rate on car insurance, auto loans, mortgages, and the like. We get a good score in part by having a good balance of credit available to credit used, and paying cards off and bills on time every month.

[Villages PL]

Using a Credit Card does not open Pandora's box for skimming like using a Debit card would do. If your CC is comprised the chances are very high that your CC company will notify you of any suspicious usage attempts. Not so with a Debit card which is a instant authorization to withdraw funds from your account. The Debit Card supplier will NOT notify you of suspicious use.

Where did you get the above information? You say a debit card is a instant authorization to withdraw funds from your account. Isn't a credit card instant authorization to walk away with store merchandise?

My bank told me they would notify me of any suspicious use of my debit card. Also, they said: 1) they would cover any fraudulent use of my debit card and 2) and fraudulent use of my checks.

[Barefoot]

Using a Credit Card does not open Pandora's box for skimming like using a Debit card would do. Not so with a Debit card which is a instant authorization to withdraw funds from your account. The Debit Card supplier will NOT notify you of suspicious use.

I don't know the process for Debit Cards in Florida. :confused:
However in Canada, we need a PIN number which provides an additional layer of security.

[Villages PL]

Obviously you have never heard of the ease with which someone can dip your check into a solution and erase all the writing, leaving the check intact.

Like you said, "Really, do some research." The above mainly pertains to outgoing checks stolen from mail boxes before being delivered. This is for people who have mail boxes in front of their house. I first heard about it about 25 years ago.

Or how easy it is to duplicate the check. Why do you think you can order new checks online using one of those check printing companies by providing your bank information, and someone else can't? Really,do some research.

In order for me to get new checks I have to send in a voided check. But assuming someone would do it online or otherwise, wouldn't they have to change the address? Otherwise, the checks would be delivered to me. What about my name? How could they be me without a driver's license? Would they get a fake driver's license with my name on it so they could identify themselves as me. A Florida license has to have a picture on it and is not easy to duplicate. If they are not 73 like me would they have to change the date of birth too? I have never heard of any warnings about this type of fraud. Do you have a link that explains it?

Anyway, my bank covers fraudulent use of checks to withdraw money from my checking account. This includes fraudulent use of a debit card too.

The fact of the matter is, no hacker has ever been able to get away with fraud on my cc accounts whether someone gave me free identify theft or not.

The point is: It could still happen somewhere down the road.

And in 50 years of using credit cards, I have not laid out one dime due to fraud. I still win, because in year 51 if someone cleans out your bank account, you're skewered. I will never be responsible for a dime of fraud on my cc.

You're not up on this stuff: My account, as I said, is protected against loss.

You haven't lost any money and I haven't lost any money. But it's not about us, it's about where the biggest risk is, statistically. And I believe the biggest risk is with credit cards. That's what has been grabbing all the headlines lately.

[Villages PL]

I don't know the process for Debit Cards in Florida. :confused:
However in Canada, we need a PIN number which provides an additional layer of security.

Bingo! Thank you very much. Even if I drop my (Florida) debit card and someone else picks it up, they won't have my PIN number.

[CFrance]

Like you said, "Really, do some research." The above mainly pertains to outgoing checks stolen from mail boxes before being delivered. This is for people who have mail boxes in front of their house. I first heard about it about 25 years ago.



In order for me to get new checks I have to send in a voided check. But assuming someone would do it online or otherwise, wouldn't they have to change the address? Otherwise, the checks would be delivered to me. What about my name? How could they be me without a driver's license? Would they get a fake driver's license with my name on it so they could identify themselves as me. A Florida license has to have a picture on it and is not easy to duplicate. If they are not 73 like me would they have to change the date of birth too? I have never heard of any warnings about this type of fraud. Do you have a link that explains it?

Anyway, my bank covers fraudulent use of checks to withdraw money from my checking account. This includes fraudulent use of a debit card too.



The point is: It could still happen somewhere down the road.



You're not up on this stuff: My account, as I said, is protected against loss.

You haven't lost any money and I haven't lost any money. But it's not about us, it's about where the biggest risk is, statistically. And I believe the biggest risk is with credit cards. That's what has been grabbing all the headlines lately.
Since my first statement is true, your reasoning is flawed. If I have your check and the correct stuff to dip it in, I can send it voided into any check ordering company.

You put your checks out there every time you pay a bill by mail. So no, it does not pertain to only mailboxes located outside.

I'm sorry, but I question your statement about your bank. Theoretically, they are supposed to be liable for checks they cash with unauthorized signatures, but in reality, they'll cash anything that comes down the pike, and good luck getting the $ back. Same with someone cleaning out your account with a fraudulent debit card. My son and I fought with a bank in Michigan for six months to get a measly $200 back for him.

But you stick with your checks and I'll stick with my credit card. I'm not afraid. I know for sure I'm covered.

[dbussone]

Since my first statement is true, your reasoning is flawed. If I have your check and the correct stuff to dip it in, I can send it voided into any check ordering company.



You put your checks out there every time you pay a bill by mail. So no, it does not pertain to only mailboxes located outside.



I'm sorry, but I question your statement about your bank. Theoretically, they are supposed to be liable for checks they cash with unauthorized signatures, but in reality, they'll cash anything that comes down the pike, and good luck getting the $ back. Same with someone cleaning out your account with a fraudulent debit card. My son and I fought with a bank in Michigan for six months to get a measly $200 back for him.



But you stick with your checks and I'll stick with my credit card. I'm not afraid. I know for sure I'm covered.


Your analysis and statements are very accurate. Better to use a cc than a debit card.

[dbussone]

Your analysis and statements are very accurate. Better to use a cc than a debit card.


Or checks!

[Bonanza]

If credit cards are so care free, how come there are so many hacker stories in the news, like J.C. Penny etc.. J.C. Penny is having a tough time lately because of the sensitive information that was lost.

When something is "new" and better, like new cards, isn't it just a matter of time before crooks figure out how to tap into it?

P.S. The cash in my wallet works perfectly every time and I don't have to check my email after spending. And there's no danger of carrying a lot of cash. Whenever I purchase a big item, which is rare, I pay by check.

Yes, credit cards are very carefree -- much more carefree than cash, actually. When Target or Penneys or anyone else is hacked, an individual is perfectly safe because the credit card company does not hold you responsible.

There will always be someone who looks to build a better mousetrap. Something new comes out and the bad guys are immediately working on how to hack, copy or whatever it might be. The cash in your wallet could be counterfeit. Try to pass a bad bill in a bank or use a bill unknowingly and consider your money gone. It is confiscated and the bank or store doesn't give you a new one!

If you don't think there is any danger in carrying cash, you must live in a cocoon. You can lose cash, be robbed, be pickpocketed, be given wrong change, misplace bills. I could go on and on. There is no question that a credit card is much safer than cash. What do you use when you need two sources of identification? Lastly, if you don't have a credit card, there are many things you can't do such as rent a car.

Whether you get your credit card statement in the mail or online, it is a bonus. It helps you keep track of your spending, warranty dates for a purchase, and many different sources for income tax.

We are approaching 2015 and technology is at your feet.
Use it!

[Barefoot]

ORIGINAL POST
I'm I the only one that afraid to use my credit card at gas stations? Reluctant to use it anywhere due to the chance of skimmers and low life employee stealing my information. Just heard on the news this morning skimmers found in lake country. I would think the villages would be gold mine for this illegal activity?

In don't understand why the industry don't go to the European style credit card system that's nearly skim proof. IMO cost is no excuse not to upgrade from this insecure system of the 20 century?

real pain to fill up with cash in this plastic world. I see the day cash will be obsolete. IMO the credit industry or the government should be held responsible for credit card fraud when they won't update unsecured system.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I find this subject very interesting. We do have chip technology on credit cards in Canada, but I haven't seen chip technology in The Villages yet.
I have had fraudulent charges on my credit card statement (due to online shopping). However I've found that a call to the Fraud Department at Visa easily gets fraudulent charges reversed.

I just googled the subject of "fear of new technology" and learned a new concept. I wonder if there could be a little bit of neophobia going on here, especially if people are using cash rather than credit cards. I know that I personally suffer from neophobia as far as Facebook is concerned - I really dislike it.

Disclaimer .... These are not my words or thoughts, but info copied from google .......

In psychology, neophobia is defined as the persistent and abnormal fear (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fear_processing_in_the_brain) of anything new. In its milder form, it can manifest as the unwillingness to try new things or break from routine. Mild manifestations are often present in elderly people (who often cope using long established habits and don't want to learn "new tricks").

Neophobia could also be fear of losing what you have. e.g.: You are content with your life and you fear that if you change anything you might never be happy again. This is sometimes caused by earlier experiences of being emotionally hurt.

Robert Anton Wilson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Anton_Wilson) theorized, in his book Prometheus Rising (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prometheus_Rising), that neophobia is the reason human culture and ideas do not advance as quickly as our technology. His model includes an idea from Thomas Kuhn (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Kuhn)'s The Structure of Scientific Revolutions (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Structure_of_Scientific_Revolutions), which is that new ideas, however well-proven and evident, are implemented only when the generations who consider them 'new' die and are replaced by generations who consider the ideas accepted and old.

:duck:

[CFrance]

ORIGINAL POST
I'm I the only one that afraid to use my credit card at gas stations? Reluctant to use it anywhere due to the chance of skimmers and low life employee stealing my information. Just heard on the news this morning skimmers found in lake country. I would think the villages would be gold mine for this illegal activity?

In don't understand why the industry don't go to the European style credit card system that's nearly skim proof. IMO cost is no excuse not to upgrade from this insecure system of the 20 century?

real pain to fill up with cash in this plastic world. I see the day cash will be obsolete. IMO the credit industry or the government should be held responsible for credit card fraud when they won't update unsecured system.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I find this subject very interesting. We do have chip technology on credit cards in Canada, but I haven't seen chip technology in The Villages yet.
I have had fraudulent charges on my credit card statement (due to online shopping). However I've found that a call to the Fraud Department at Visa easily gets fraudulent charges reversed.

I just googled the subject of "fear of new technology" and learned a new concept. I wonder if there could be a little bit of neophobia going on here, especially if people are using cash rather than credit cards. I know that I personally suffer from neophobia as far as Facebook is concerned - I really dislike it.

Disclaimer .... These are not my words or thoughts, but info copied from google .......

In psychology, neophobia is defined as the persistent and abnormal fear (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fear_processing_in_the_brain) of anything new. In its milder form, it can manifest as the unwillingness to try new things or break from routine. Mild manifestations are often present in elderly people (who often cope using long established habits and don't want to learn "new tricks").

Neophobia could also be fear of losing what you have. e.g.: You are content with your life and you fear that if you change anything you might never be happy again. This is sometimes caused by earlier experiences of being emotionally hurt.

Robert Anton Wilson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Anton_Wilson) theorized, in his book Prometheus Rising (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prometheus_Rising), that neophobia is the reason human culture and ideas do not advance as quickly as our technology. His model includes an idea from Thomas Kuhn (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Kuhn)'s The Structure of Scientific Revolutions (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Structure_of_Scientific_Revolutions), which is that new ideas, however well-proven and evident, are implemented only when the generations who consider them 'new' die and are replaced by generations who consider the ideas accepted and old.

:duck:
Interesting. I learned something new today!

[Villages PL]

Since my first statement is true, your reasoning is flawed. If I have your check and the correct stuff to dip it in, I can send it voided into any check ordering company.

You can dip it all you want but my name and address is printed on every check and it won't come off. The checks will be sent to my address.

You put your checks out there every time you pay a bill by mail. So no, it does not pertain to only mailboxes located outside.

I no longer pay bills by mail, bills are paid by automatic deduction.

I'm sorry, but I question your statement about your bank. Theoretically, they are supposed to be liable for checks they cash with unauthorized signatures, but in reality, they'll cash anything that comes down the pike, and good luck getting the $ back. Same with someone cleaning out your account with a fraudulent debit card. My son and I fought with a bank in Michigan for six months to get a measly $200 back for him.

According to statistics, a lot of fraud or misuse of debit cards and checks are done by family members. That could be why your bank gave you a hard time. I don't have that problem.

I think it's pretty reckless to say that my bank will "cash anything that comes down the pike." You have no way of knowing that.

As far as cleaning out my account with a fraudulent debit card: How would they get my PIN number?


But you stick with your checks and I'll stick with my credit card. I'm not afraid. I know for sure I'm covered.

I know for sure I'm covered too.

[Villages PL]

Yes, credit cards are very carefree -- much more carefree than cash, actually. When Target or Penneys or anyone else is hacked, an individual is perfectly safe because the credit card company does not hold you responsible.

Of course, credit cards are "carefree" until something bad happens. The vast majority of credit card users don't have their accounts blocked. Many have multiple cards and use cards for every purchase they make. More activity means more exposure to having one's identity stolen.

There will always be someone who looks to build a better mousetrap. Something new comes out and the bad guys are immediately working on how to hack, copy or whatever it might be.

Exactly, I couldn't have said it better myself.

The cash in your wallet could be counterfeit. Try to pass a bad bill in a bank or use a bill unknowingly and consider your money gone. It is confiscated and the bank or store doesn't give you a new one!

Absolutely. But guess what. It has never happened to me or anyone I know. I might have a better chance of being hit by lightening. I actually knew someone who was hit by lightening. The biggest bills I carry are 20s and it's a risk I'm willing to take. If I lose twenty dollars it's not the end of the world and it's better than having my identity stolen.

If you don't think there is any danger in carrying cash, you must live in a cocoon. You can lose cash, be robbed, be pickpocketed, be given wrong change, misplace bills. I could go on and on.

You could go on and on with your "cocoon" stories but none of the above has ever happened to me. (I always check my receipt and count my change before I leave the store.)


There is no question that a credit card is much safer than cash. What do you use when you need two sources of identification? Lastly, if you don't have a credit card, there are many things you can't do such as rent a car.

Credit cards may be safer than cash until something happens to the vast majority of people who don't have their accounts blocked.

Whether you get your credit card statement in the mail or online, it is a bonus. It helps you keep track of your spending, warranty dates for a purchase, and many different sources for income tax.

My spending is easy to keep track of because I don't have the need to do a lot of spending. I bought a new car a couple of years ago. That's not hard to keep track of. And I never have enough bills to take itemized deductions on my income tax. But, anyway, I know how to save receipts. Another thing is this: When it comes to paying cash for everyday items like groceries, gas or clothing etc., I don't want to keep track of it because I don't need to budget. Sure, I look for bargains like everyone else but I just don't need to worry about budgeting. Budgeting would take the fun out of spending.

We are approaching 2015 and technology is at your feet.
Use it!

Yes, and I use technology when I see an advantage. In the past year I set up a new brokerage account for online trading.

[Villages PL]

ORIGINAL POST
I'm I the only one that afraid to use my credit card at gas stations? Reluctant to use it anywhere due to the chance of skimmers and low life employee stealing my information. Just heard on the news this morning skimmers found in lake country. I would think the villages would be gold mine for this illegal activity?

In don't understand why the industry don't go to the European style credit card system that's nearly skim proof. IMO cost is no excuse not to upgrade from this insecure system of the 20 century?

real pain to fill up with cash in this plastic world. I see the day cash will be obsolete. IMO the credit industry or the government should be held responsible for credit card fraud when they won't update unsecured system.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I find this subject very interesting. We do have chip technology on credit cards in Canada, but I haven't seen chip technology in The Villages yet.
I have had fraudulent charges on my credit card statement (due to online shopping). However I've found that a call to the Fraud Department at Visa easily gets fraudulent charges reversed.

I just googled the subject of "fear of new technology" and learned a new concept. I wonder if there could be a little bit of neophobia going on here, especially if people are using cash rather than credit cards. I know that I personally suffer from neophobia as far as Facebook is concerned - I really dislike it.

Disclaimer .... These are not my words or thoughts, but info copied from google .......

In psychology, neophobia is defined as the persistent and abnormal fear (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fear_processing_in_the_brain) of anything new. In its milder form, it can manifest as the unwillingness to try new things or break from routine. Mild manifestations are often present in elderly people (who often cope using long established habits and don't want to learn "new tricks").

Neophobia could also be fear of losing what you have. e.g.: You are content with your life and you fear that if you change anything you might never be happy again. This is sometimes caused by earlier experiences of being emotionally hurt.

Robert Anton Wilson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Anton_Wilson) theorized, in his book Prometheus Rising (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prometheus_Rising), that neophobia is the reason human culture and ideas do not advance as quickly as our technology. His model includes an idea from Thomas Kuhn (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Kuhn)'s The Structure of Scientific Revolutions (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Structure_of_Scientific_Revolutions), which is that new ideas, however well-proven and evident, are implemented only when the generations who consider them 'new' die and are replaced by generations who consider the ideas accepted and old.

:duck:

Last year there were 20 identity thefts per minute. Thanks mainly to credit card technology.

And less people today are using credit cards (only 43%) whether it be because of budgeting problems or fear of identity theft. It makes no difference what the reason is, it's a general dissatisfaction with credit cards.

[Villages PL]

Last year there were 20 identity thefts per minute. Thanks mainly to credit card technology.

And less people today are using credit cards (only 43%) whether it be because of budgeting problems or fear of identity theft. It makes no difference what the reason is, it's a general dissatisfaction with credit cards.

Back to the main subject: If credit cards are so great, why are less people using them today than in the past?

[Barefoot]

And less people today are using credit cards (only 43%) whether it be because of budgeting problems or fear of identity theft.

According to Gallup.com/poll, 71% of people in the USA have credit cards. And most people have more than one credit card.

I'm done with this thread.