Working to prevent Debit Card Fraud

Does it ever feel like trying to keep your money secure is like fighting a losing battle?  Every day you hear about a new scheme or scam that is targeting the things that make your life easier:  most especially your Debit Card.  International Debit Card fraud is one of the fastest growing trends in the Debit Card fraud department.

 1st Bank of Sea Isle City is committed to keeping your money secure. That is why we implemented a new feature designed to help prevent Debit Card Fraud. In addition to our current risk-based monitoring and alert systems, we have implemented TranBlocker^SM— a system designed to identify International Transactions, and based on pre-set criteria, report or block those transactions.

Effective March 1, 2009, 1st Bank of Sea Isle City began blocking all International Transactions on our 1st Bank Consumer VISA® Debit Cards.

What does this mean?

By blocking International transactions, 1st Bank of Sea Isle City will be able to stop International Debit Card Fraud before your account is targeted.

What types of transactions are affected?

Most of the International transactions that take place are done over the phone or Internet—sometimes you may not even be aware of it!  For example: you see an ad for a product in the paper or on the Internet. You call an (800) number to place the order—the company that you just called may be in California, or they may be in Australia!

Why is 1st Bank blocking these transactions?

1st Bank of Sea Isle City feels that the risk of debit card fraud far outweighs benefit of allowing these transactions to continue unintentionally.  Within the banking industry, there have been several substantiated cases of fraudulent transactions being initiated outside of the U.S., and our analysis shows that our customers do not as a general rule transact outside of the country.

But what if I’m leaving the country?

If you are traveling outside the U.S., don’t worry! Simply call us or fill out a form at one of the branches, and we will make sure that your card will work as well while you’re gone as it does while you’re home!