Consumers can protect themselves from both identity theft and credit card fraud in much the same way, but many people are unaware of the differences between the two:

• Credit card fraud is using an invalid or stolen credit card to make purchases.
• Identity theft is a more serious crime where someone uses your name, address, Social Security number, bank or credit card account number or other identifying information without your knowledge to commit fraud, such as setting up accounts in your name.

A new form of cyber crime is the practice of "phishing." This occurs when scammers contact consumers, usually through spam email, and falsely claim to be a legitimate business. They ask the recipient to either respond to the email or they direct the person to a Web site where they are asked to "update" their private information. They also can place a fake pop-up window in front of a legitimate site that won't disappear until you provide personal information or close your browser.

To help guard against becoming a "phishing" victim, Your Credit Card Companies recommends that consumers be alert for these scams and be aware that requests for personal information such as a user ID, account number or password are usually fake. Consumers should not respond to them, but rather delete the email. Your Credit Card Companies members do not request this type of information by email.

Additionally, Your Credit Card Companies is encouraging consumers to take some simple, commonsense steps to avoid falling victim to online credit fraud or identity theft:

• When communicating with credit card issuers electronically, consumers should always use their issuer's secure online Web site.
• Be sure to have the latest anti-virus, spyware and security updates as a safety measure.
• Create passwords that are easy to remember, but difficult for "outsiders" to guess. Mix letters and numbers, avoid using birthdays and Social Security numbers. Use a different password for financial- services Websites and transactions than for other accounts. Change passwords regularly.
• Deal only with companies that post their privacy policies on their Web site. Reputable companies should prominently display their policies before asking for credit card or other personal information.

If consumers think they have been a victim of either identity theft or credit card fraud, following these simple tips will help prevent future incidents and provide peace of mind knowing the situation is being taken care of:

• Immediately contact your financial institution. Alert them that you have been a victim of either identity theft or credit card fraud. Have them cancel current credit cards and send you new ones. This will also protect consumers from being liable for purchases. Cardholders of the members of Your Credit Card Companies are not liable for any charges incurred as a result of fraudulent activities.
• Contact the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Trans Union, and Equifax) and request that a fraud alert be placed on credit reports. The credit bureaus phone numbers are:
• Equifax - 1-800-525-6285
• Experian - 1-888-397-3742
• Trans Union - 1-800-680-7289
• File a complaint. In cases of possible identity theft, also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-382-4357.
• Contact local law enforcement. In either case of suspected fraud or identity theft, also contact local law enforcement to alert them to the possible crimes.
• Get more information. More information and other valuable tips can also be found at YourCreditCardCompanies.com.

Your Credit Card Companies is a group of financial services companies with a shared commitment to value and quality service for consumers.