When Suspicion is a Good Thing How Banks Track Suspicious Activity

DEC 10, 2013

More than one singer has crooned about the toxic affect suspicion can have on a relationship, but when it comes to your relationship with your bank, suspicion may be a good thing. Your banks vigilance can help you detect, catch and correct suspicious behavior that may indicate fraud on your account.

So what types of behaviors raise red flags for banks? Here are a few:

• A deposit or withdrawal of an unusually large amount of cash.
• Very frequent withdrawals or deposits, whether of smaller or larger amounts.
• Use of your card (debit or credit) in a state or country other than where you live
• An unusually high number of purchases in a relatively short span of time.
• Purchase of a big-ticket item often associated with criminal activity.
• A small purchase in a geographic area with a high crime rate, especially if its outside the area where you normally make purchases.
• An overseas transaction.
• Any activity that deviates widely from the normal pattern of use your bank has come to expect from your account activities.

If a bank spots something happening to your account that is outside the ordinary, they will usually contact you to question the activity and may even freeze your credit or debit card while investigating the suspicious activity. If you find out the activity is the indication of identity theft or fraud, understand there are steps you can take to recover.

While your banking institution will perform their due diligence in monitoring for suspicious behavior, its up to you to check your bank statements and credit report regularly for signs of identity theft and possible inaccuracies.

 

This article is provided for general guidance and information. It is not intended as, nor should it be construed to be, legal, financial or other professional advice. Please consult with your attorney or financial advisor to discuss any legal or financial issues involved with credit decisions.

Published by permission from ConsumerInfo.com, Inc.   © 2013 ConsumerInfo.com, Inc.   All rights reserved.