According to NerdWallet a Harris Poll that surveyed more than 2,000 adults in the United States to learn about credit card and debit card usage showed that 44% of Americans report using a debit card for everyday expenses and 34% of Americans make such everyday purchases with credit cards.

Debit card theft happens, while credit card fraud is damaging you are better protected when using a credit card. Debit cards are linked directly to your bank account so addressing theft promptly is important.

Let’s talk about some steps you can take to keep your debit card and your bank account safe.

Choose Electronic Statements & Payments

Mail theft is becoming more common, when you choose to have invoices and statements mailed to you there is always a risk that the mail will be stolen, which can lead to identity theft and fraud. Instead access your accounts online to pay your bills and download statements. Monitor your accounts by logging in often to check for any unusual activity.

Set Up Account Alerts

Sign up for banking alerts. Your bank will notify you by email or text message when certain activity occurs on your accounts, such as withdrawals, address changes or unusual activity.

Protect your PIN

Your PIN (personal identification number) is the key to unlock the money in your bank account, so it is extremely important to keep that number safe. When entering your PIN, cover the keypad with your hand. If you have multiple accounts, use a different PIN number for each account and don’t share your PIN number with anyone.

Watch for Card Skimmers

Be on the lookout for card skimmers when using your debit card at grocery stores, convenience stores, ATMs, gas pumps and other locations. If a skimmer has been attached your debit card information will be stolen. Inspect the card reader before inserting your card. If you notice it is loose, uneven or the keys feel odd don’t use it. Use contactless, “tap to pay” when you have that option. You won’t have to insert or swipe your card, and they provide the same level of protection and encryption as a chip reader.

Safeguard Your Online Purchases

It is much safer to use a credit card when ordering online but if you must use a debit card keep it safe. Shop on secure sites only and don’t save your payment information on the website. Consider having a separate bank account and debit card strictly for online purchases. Keep just enough money in the account to cover your expenses. This prevents your main account from being compromised.

Shred Sensitive Mail

Don’t throw anything in the trash that contains personal or financial information without shredding it first, this includes old debit and credit cards. If a criminal gets their hands on your private information, it can lead to identity and financial theft.

Beware of Phishing Scams

When checking your email or doing business online, make sure you know who you’re interacting with. Cybercriminals set up malicious websites that may look genuine, they can also send email messages that look like they are coming from your bank.

Don’t Ignore Data Breach Notifications

Many victims of identity theft received warnings that their accounts might have been breached but took no action. If you get one of these messages, first verify that it is legitimate by calling the company directly. Then change your PIN and ask your provider to issue you a new card and cancel the old one. You can also ask that a fraud alert be placed on your file.

Using Payment Apps

When using payment apps link them to your credit card, not your debit card.

Protect Your Computer and Mobile Devices

Use firewall, anti-virus, and anti-spyware software on your computer and mobile devices, keep the programs updated and run regular scans.

Use a Secured Network

Never use public Wi-Fi for financial transactions or anything else confidential such as email or online shopping.

Consider Using a Credit Card Instead of a Debit Card

The best way to avoid debit card fraud is to not use it. Keep your debit card at home. Credit cards offer much more protection than debit cards. Credit cards also help you build credit and earn cash back and rewards on spending you would have done anyway. Use your Debit card when you need to withdraw cash and use your credit card for everything else.

What if Debit Card Fraud Happens?

If your debit card is lost or stolen notify your bank immediately. Most banks allow you to log in online or through their mobile app to lock your card and report it lost or stolen. But also follow up with a phone call to your bank. Document everything including the name of the person you spoke with. Once you report the loss, you’re no longer responsible for any fraudulent charges.

Freeze Your Credit

One of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself against fraud and identity theft is to freeze your credit. Do that at least for the three major credit bureaus. Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This can be done online or by calling those companies. There are several other credit agencies as well, PRBC, SageStream, Advanced Resolution Service (ARS), and Innovis. You can freeze your credit with those agencies as well.