Altered Cards

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June, 2005

Recently, several businesses have fallen victim to skimmed counterfeit credit cards. These cards can be legitimate credit cards but have had the magnetic stripe on the back of the card replaced with someone else’s credit card number. As a result, every time that credit card is swiped, the charges will be billed to the credit card number encoded on the magnetic stripe.

HINT
Asking for ID will not always prevent this, as the suspect may have identification to match. A sure way to identify this type of fraud is to check the name and number printed on the receipt with the name and number embossed on the front of the credit card. If the name and/or numbers do not match, then the credit card has been counterfeited.

WHAT DO I DO?
If you identify a counterfeit card, call Moneris at 1-866-802-2637 and follow the prompts for a Code 10.
A Code 10 call puts you in touch with the authorization department without alerting the customer. These operators are trained to ask “yes” and “no” questions only that will help them determine the situation and will advise you on what to do. They may even keep you on hold and call the police for you.

CAUTION
Attempt to retain the credit card and as much detail of the suspect’s description. Do not try to apprehend or detain the cardholder. If the suspect flees, do not chase them. Never put yourself in danger. Write any and all details down and have them ready for the police.