TL;DR
Someone might have recorded your credit card details during a phone call. Here’s how to check for fraud, protect yourself, and report the issue.
1. Check Your Bank & Credit Card Statements Immediately
- Review recent transactions: Look for any purchases you didn’t make or amounts that seem wrong. Go back at least 30 days, but ideally further if possible.
- Online banking is best: Most banks let you see a detailed transaction history online. Use this to quickly scan your activity.
- Look for small test charges: Fraudsters sometimes make small purchases first to check if the card number works before making bigger ones.
2. Contact Your Bank or Credit Card Provider
- Report suspicious activity: Tell them about the potential recording and any transactions you don’t recognise. They will likely cancel your current card and issue a new one.
- Ask for a fraud investigation: This is important even if you haven’t found anything wrong yet.
- Note the reference number: Keep a record of when you called, who you spoke to, and any reference numbers given.
3. Place a Fraud Alert on Your Credit File
This warns lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.
- Contact one of the three credit reference agencies: They are legally required to tell the others.
- Experian: 0800 024 7121
- Equifax: 0800 567 0000
- TransUnion: 0800 626 743
- Alert lasts for one year: You can renew it if needed.
4. Consider a Credit Freeze (More Extreme)
This prevents anyone from accessing your credit file, making it very difficult for fraudsters to open new accounts.
- Contact each agency separately: Unlike fraud alerts, you need to freeze with all three.
- Experian: 0800 024 7121
- Equifax: 0800 567 0000
- TransUnion: 0800 626 743
- You’ll need to unfreeze it if you apply for credit: This takes time, so only do this if you’re very concerned.
5. Check Your Phone Records (If Possible)
See if there are any unusual calls around the time your card details might have been compromised.
- Look for unknown numbers: Investigate any calls you don’t recognise, especially those to or from suspicious areas.
6. Report to Action Fraud
This is the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cyber security incidents.
- Website: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk
- Phone: 0300 123 2040
7. Be Wary of Phishing Attempts
Fraudsters may try to contact you pretending to be your bank or credit card company.
- Never give out personal information: Banks will never ask for your PIN, security codes, or full card details over the phone or email.
- Contact your bank directly: If you’re unsure about a communication, call them using the number on their official website.