THE loss of one’s credit cards, whether stolen or misplaced, is always a nuisance. For this reason, we must take all possible precautions to keep them safe, and if stolen, to cancel them immediately, we are advised by the CPP Protection and Services group. When wearing light clothes, for example, we should always use a money belt or a special bag firmly attached to the belt, and keep our credit cards, money and other important documents in it. We should keep all bags and briefcases close to our bodies on public transport or public waiting areas, and should never leave bags visible on passenger seats while driving. When swimming, we should ensure that somebody stays on the beach with our belongings. We must also pay close attention to our personal belongings in airports, railway or bus stations, taxi queues and anywhere else in public, and we should always ensure that there is nobody standing too close to us while operating ATM machines. We should check our bank receipts to ensure that no payments have been made without our knowledge, and we should take note of our emergency security numbers so that lost or stolen cards can be cancelled immediately.
We are also reminded that the bank must take a certain responsibility for money lost from one’s account there, given that they have created the bank-card system. “The client who accepts a bank or credit card from a bank assumes the responsibility of keeping it in a safe place, but the European Bank’s Good Conduct Code establishes that the user should not be responsible for amounts lost in excess of 150 euros, except in cases of grave negligence, knowledge that the card was stolen with reporting it immediately to the bank, and fraud on the part of the user,” says a CPP spokesperson.
The Bank of Spain also establishes that this limit should apply only when it can be shown that the card holder had kept the PIN number with the card, did not advise the bank in time or left the card in a place where it would evidently be stolen, such as a car seat.
Recommendations
Remember: Ensure that the card is returned as soon as payment has been made.
Proximity: Always keep one’s bags and suitcases close to oneself on public transport.
Money belt: Use a money belt or bag attached to one’s belt.
Precaution: Do not leave bags or wallets in clear view.
Double check: Check the condition of the ATM machine and ensure that there is nobody too close while using it.
Report: Inform the bank of any plans to use of one’s credit card regularly in new areas.
Security numbers: Ensure you have the numbers needed to block the card immediately if robbed.
Verification: Examine all receipts from your bank as soon as you get home.
