One member has just suffered an extraordinary run of bad luck, with 3 credit cards compromised in as many weeks. Most worryingly, one card was hacked before it had even been activated.

Entering card details on a website without a valid security certificate was the cause of one of the cards being compromised. In another case, the physical card was stolen from the member’s mailbox. However, in the third case, unauthorised purchases were made on the card five days before the member had even received it. The card was not activated until a week after the purchases had been made.

Numerous other members have shared their own experiences of having their credit card information stolen. One member’s card was used by hackers six months after their details were taken.

In the case of the card compromised before activation, one member hypothesises that a bank employee may be responsible for the breach. Another member raises the point that some chip cards can now be used for small purchases without being formally activated.

Thankfully, credit card providers promise to reimburse cardholders for any fraudulent transactions. If necessary, they will also provide a replacement card free of charge. This means that, as frustrating as these kinds of breaches may be, there is little ultimate risk to cardholders.

Join the discussion HERE.

The editor of Australian Frequent Flyer, Matt's passion for travel has taken him to over 70 countries… with the help of frequent flyer points, of course!
Matt's favourite destinations (so far) are Germany, Brazil & Kazakhstan. His interests include economics, aviation & foreign languages, and he has a soft spot for good food and red wine.

You can connect with Matt by posting on the Australian Frequent Flyer community forum and tagging @AFF Editor.
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