When you receive your credit card statement in the mail, you may be surprised to see that it’s much higher than anticipated. After further review, you may be unnerved to see a number of unauthorized credit card charges. Unfortunately, knowing how to proceed can be confusing, but it’s imperative to take the necessary steps to remedy this situation. If you’re unsure where to start, the following blog explores how these charges can happen and why working with a Los Angeles, California unauthorized credit card transaction lawyer is critical to fighting for the best possible outcome when you’re the victim of fraud.
How Do Unauthorized Credit Card Charges Happen?
Unfortunately, there are a number of ways in which someone can use your credit card without your permission.
One of the most common methods that thieves will use to access your card information is through data breaches. When you make purchases in-store or online, your card information is stored in a database. When this is breached, your information, including your card details, can be taken and sold to other thieves. They will then use your card information for their own personal use.
Another way thieves can access your information is through identity theft. When a thief gets your personal information, they can log in or speak to your card representative. If this occurs, you may be locked out of your account while the thief runs up your credit card bill.
Finally, thieves may use devices known as skimmers to steal your card information. These devices are fitted to card readers at ATMs, gas stations, and even regular point-of-sale terminals in stores. The skimmer takes your information and stores it on a chip for the thief to access later. You’ll also find that many work in tandem with tiny cameras pointed at the PIN pad to obtain your PIN.
What Steps Can I Take to Remove These Charges?
If you find unauthorized credit card charges on your account, knowing how to proceed for the most effective outcome is critical. However, you should note that the law is on your side. The Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA) was established to help ensure that consumers receive protections regarding unauthorized charges, among other billing errors.
Generally, the first thing you should do is immediately report the charges to your credit card issuer. If you have reason to believe you are a victim of identity theft, they will likely issue you a new card. Even if you dispute the charges over the phone, you should still send a written dispute. In your letter to the card issuer, you should include a brief description of what happened, a statement showing the charges, and any information or evidence you have to back up your claims that the charges are fraudulent.
Under the FCBA, the card issuer has 30 days to acknowledge the dispute and two billing cycles to conduct an investigation into the charges and issue a report. If they conclude the charges are fraudulent, they will be removed from your account.
Whether you need help filing your dispute or appealing the decision by the card issuer who determined the charges were not fraudulent, it’s in your best interest to work with an experienced consumer defense attorney. At Los Angeles Legal Solutions, we understand how complicated these issues can be. That’s why our team is determined to help you fight for the outcome you deserve if you’re the victim of unauthorized credit card charges. Contact us today to learn more.
