5 Smart Ways to Manage and Protect Your Debit Card
Debit cards are far and away the number one way Americans access their money today—we’re all swiping, tapping and approving transactions as we go about our daily lives. Yet, many people underutilize the built-in controls included with their debit card that let you manage when, where and how your card is used.
From tracking purchases to setting spending and security preferences, these features help you stay in control of your money and protect yourself from fraud, all from your computer or mobile device. Here are five smart ways to get more from your account with debit card controls—based on what we offer at Banner so check with your bank to see which features are included with your card.
Turn your card on or off instantly
It happens: You misplace your debit card, or worse, someone steals it. This feature lets you quickly disable your lost or stolen card and turn it back on just as easily if you find it. You’ll be able to stop unauthorized use fast, without calling or visiting a branch. It’s a powerful tool to protect your money and give you peace of mind.
Set spending limits and usage controls
Even with a budget, overspending happens sometimes. Activate spending limits and real-time alerts to help you stay on track. And if you want to establish firmer guidelines, you can customize your controls to deny transactions based on location, merchant type, transaction type and spending limits you set. This feature is especially helpful for parents of teens who want to establish guardrails for how and when they can use their debit card.
Track card activity with real-time purchase alerts
If you want to know each time your card is used, real-time purchase alerts are for you. This feature even includes any declined transactions. Typically sent as push notifications through your bank’s mobile banking app, these alerts provide a convenient way to monitor card activity on the go. While alerts don’t control or block transactions, they can serve as an early warning sign of suspicious activity and help you quickly spot purchases you don’t recognize.
Create travel plans for seamless spending
As a fraud prevention measure, some banks ask that you share your travel plans before using your debit card while traveling far outside your usual area, such as to another region or country. Using this feature can help prevent declined transactions. Look for this as a self-serve feature within online and mobile banking.
Use fraud protection that travels with you
Location-based card controls can add another layer of protection by limiting your debit card to work only within your smartphone’s geographic area. If a transaction is attempted elsewhere, it may be declined to help prevent unauthorized use. This feature is a good fit if you want to ensure your card is used where you are—and nowhere else.
Explore all your debit card features
Remember, debit cards are more than the plastic in your wallet. Today, they come with a bunch of great tools that help you manage when, where and how your card is used. If you’re a Banner client, take a look at the ways you can manage your debit card within Banner Bank Online Banking.
