If you live in the South Colorado area, then you need to be aware that people in the area are receiving calls asking for credit card numbers, according to KKTV. The caller uses the premise that your credit card has already been misused fraudulently, and then they claim that they need your credit card number to protect you from further problems.

The key to the success of this phishing scam is that the people receiving the call are often a little shocked when first told that they have been the victim of a scam already. The tendency for many people is to want financial protection, and they may willingly and quickly provide the credit card numbers they are asked for.

In order to gain trust, the scammers in the area often refer to Aventa, which used to be the Colorado Springs Credit Union. A representative from Aventa says that they have already been receiving phone calls from people who have asked them about the calls.

Unfortunately, the caller is operating a scam, and providing them with your credit card number gives them access to use it – wherever they want. Scammers know that they often have a limited amount of time to use a stolen credit card number, so they will often try and use it rather quickly.

The only way to stop the fraudulent use of your credit cards if you have given the numbers to someone scamming you is to immediately call the credit card company and cancel it. The credit card company will issue you a new credit card.

Aventa tells people who ask that they should never give out their credit card numbers. Company representatives do not ask for such information.

If a person calls you and says that you need to provide a credit card number for prevention of future problems, you can almost be certain that it is not your credit card company calling. They already have your credit card number.

When there is the possibility that you think the call might be genuinely from some company that may need the information, there are ways to protect yourself. Tell the caller that you will call the company directly using their main number. Then, look up the number and dial directly. This way, you at least know that you are talking to the right people. If you have caller ID, you should know that these devices can also be fooled. By calling them directly, you eliminate that problem.

It is important that you protect your credit card numbers and PIN numbers. There are several ways that will help you continue to keep your credit card number private. When you receive a new credit card application in the mail, be sure to shred it so that someone else cannot apply for it in your name. When you actually do get a credit card from the company, be sure to sign it immediately.

When you go online, be careful not to enter in your credit card information unless it is a secure Website. If you get emails requesting you to immediately go to a Website to “confirm” bank account or credit card information – ignore it – you can be sure that it is a scam.

If you suspect that you have already been the victim of a credit card scam and have given your credit card number to someone you shouldn’t have, you need to pay close attention to that account. In many cases, you can go online and see your credit card bill and any balances that you have. This will enable you to check on recent activity and look for any unauthorized purchases. Watching your monthly statement will also help you know when there is any misuse.