Ways to protect your account
It is interesting to note consumers are relying on debit rather than credit cards. Figures show in America, for 2008, there’s been a 13% increase in debit purchases. For the same period, credit cards showed a three per cent rise.

When it comes to card theft, the typical scenario for credit card theft is for the thieves to charge merchandise, sell that and recognize the money. Debit cards on the other hand, are an instant “cash out” financial instrument. For thieves and debit cards, they’re going to be targeting your PIN number — to extract cold hard cash from your bank account. Skimming is the technique by way of setting up equipment to capture keypad information as well as Mag strip data when you enter these at merchants, petrol stations, restaurants and ATM machines.

Use recognized ATMs.
When you think about it, a thief needs to be able to attach as well as retrieve their skimming devices so they are able to use the gathered data. They’re more likely to install these devices in non-bank settings where there is less traffic and no surveillance equipment.
With this in mind, it’s wise to frequent ATMs in a banking environment.

Accounts should be closely monitored.
The quickest way you’ll probably detect fraudulent activity is by using debit card accounts that can be accessed online rather than waiting for monthly statements to arrive. Bear in mind, the majority of countries require you to report the theft or loss of your card or PIN before they’ll accept their listed liability for the unauthorised withdrawals.
Debit cards (as well as credit cards, for that matter) should always have easy online account management

Be wary of pumping petrol
Some countries have higher skimming incidents at petrol stations. And especially where cards are use right there at the petrol pump. There’s only a few manufacturers of these pumps and obtaining a key to a pump from a disgruntled employee would be a relatively easy task. So again, avoid entering a PIN number and opt for signing for the purchase.