As a truck driver, your job takes you to new places every day. You’re constantly on the move, which makes it all too easy for fraudsters to target you with credit card scams. When you’re traveling and making frequent purchases for fuel, meals, or repairs, it’s important to protect yourself from credit card fraud. Here are a few practical steps to help you stay safe and secure on the road.
Whenever possible, stick to well-known, reputable fuel stations and truck stops. Major chains have added layers of security and are less likely to have compromised card readers or skimmers. If you’re in an unfamiliar area, look for stations that use EMV chip readers, as these are generally safer than magnetic strip readers.
One of the most common scams is the skimmer—an illegal device placed over card readers to capture your card information. Skimmers are often attached to ATMs, fuel pumps, and other places where cards are swiped. Before inserting your card, give the reader a quick check. If it looks bulky, loose, or out of place, move on. You can also try to jiggle the card reader, as skimmers are often just attached on top and will move if tampered with.
Consider using mobile payment methods like Apple Pay or Google Wallet whenever they’re accepted. These services don’t share your actual card number during transactions, which makes it far harder for thieves to steal your information. Mobile wallets also require authentication (like a fingerprint or face scan), adding another layer of security.
Another option is to use the Greenlane Wallet and securely pre-fund your account using your bank account. Greenlane gives an unlimited (i.e., no cap) 1% cash back on all transactions using the pre-funded Wallet account. With this, you can avoid fraudsters while earning cash on your cash, an industry first.
This is where Greenlane really shines. Our app allows you to safely and securely pay for discounted fuel through our app using your favorite payment method. Transactions that go through this payment gateway are air tight when it comes to skimming and other scamming attempts on your credit cards. In fact, Greenlane invests heavily into deterring and detecting fraudulent activities and fraudsters to ensure that it has a safe and vibrant community that can be trusted.
Use the Greenlane Wallet to securely pre-fund your account using your bank account and get an unlimited (i.e., no cap) 1% cash back on all transactions using the pre-funded Wallet account. With this, you can avoid fraudsters while earning cash on your cash, an industry first.
Check your credit card and bank statements frequently, ideally daily if you’re on the road. Look out for small transactions or purchases from places you don’t recognize, as these can be signs that a scammer is testing your card’s validity. If you spot any suspicious activity, contact your card issuer immediately to block your card and avoid further unauthorized charges.
In an attempt to keep you informed of your account activities, Greenlane sends push notifications every time there is a transaction associated with your account. This allows you to quickly address any suspicious activities associated with your account and promptly report it to Greenlane.
Public Wi-Fi at truck stops, cafes, or restaurants can be convenient but can also put your financial information at risk. Hackers often target public networks to access sensitive data. When you need to check your bank account or make a transaction, switch to a secure network, like your cell provider’s data, instead of public Wi-Fi.
When paying at a truck stop or restaurant, keep your receipt and review it to ensure it matches the amount you authorized. Don’t leave receipts lying around, as they contain details that can be used to steal your information. Whenever possible, shred documents with personal or financial data before disposing of them.
Credit card fraud is an unfortunate risk that comes with life on the road, but following these tips can help keep your information safe. From sticking to trusted stops to using mobile payment options, small changes can go a long way in protecting you from fraud. Also, with a partner like Greenlane, you can rest assured that there are people in the background fighting for you and keeping your financial health safe from bad actors.
Article by Corey Katouli, Chief Product Officer @Greenlane.
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