How Do I Report Fraud to Visa?

One of the biggest headaches any credit cardholder can suffer is having a fraudulent charge applied to their account. The worst part is that many cardholders don't realize that they were the victims of this crime until they receive their monthly statement and notice the fraudulent charges. Fortunately, in the United States, the law has put a cap on unrecognized charges, and many times the consumer is not responsible for any fraudulent charges that have been applied to their account.

Different Types of Credit Card Fraud

Credit card fraud can take many forms, and can often occur in ways you would least expect. The word "fraud" is used as a blanket term to cover the many ways in which a criminal can gain access to your credit card information without your knowledge and then use it to incur in fraudulent charges, including the following:

• When you lose your credit card and somebody finds it and uses it to purchase items before you report the loss.
• Having your card stolen from your mailbox or your wallet.
• Calling your credit card company pretending to be you and requesting a new card be sent to an address that is not yours.
• When your card information is copied by an electronic device, like at a gas pump, and then used to make a counterfeit one.
• Identity theft.

How do I report fraud to Visa?

If you have been a victim of credit card fraud, have lost your card or have found charges to your account that you don't recognize, you must contact Visa immediately to prevent any further problems with your credit card. There are several ways to do so.

• Log into your online account: One of the ways in which Visa can assist those customers who are victims of fraud is through their online account. Simply log in, as you would normally do and select the option to report a lost or stolen card. There you will be able to close your account, cancel your card and order a new one.
• Call your bank: If you find you any charges you don't recognize, call the bank who issued your credit card as soon as you notice them and let them know what is going on.
• Call Visa directly: The best way to report fraud to Visa is to call their customer service number directly. By using this option you will be able to speak to a representative who is knowledgeable in situations like yours. They will be able to cancel your card and even suspend your account while requesting a thorough investigation that will help law enforcement find the fraudster. This option is also helpful if you have lost your Visa credit card because the representative will help you order a new one, simplifying the entire process and helping you in any way possible to streamline the solution to your problem.