Vanquis Visa Cards
Now's the time to sort your finances out. Whether you've had credit problems in the past - including CCJ's, are on a low income, work part time or just new to credit, we might be able to help. Could a Vanquis card be just what you're looking for?
Keeping your Vanquis card safe and secure
Everything you need to know about protecting yourself against credit card fraud
What to do if your Vanquis card is lost or stolen?
Step 1 Call Vanquis Card on 0800 783 9003 (Please note that calls are charged at national rate)
Step 2 We will cancel your card and block your account to avoid misuse
Step 3 Immediately call Vanquis if any unrecognised charges appear on your statement. We may not be able to take any action if you leave it too long before you tell us
Step 4 If you believe your identity may have been stolen and need to make sure no fraudulent applications have been made in your name, you can check your credit report for free at www.creditexpert.co.uk
We look out for you
- If we see your Vanquis Card being used in unusual transactions or in a suspicious manner, we will call you
- If you are taking your Vanquis Card overseas and intend to use it please call Vanquis bank on 0870 850 7755 and tell us when and where you are going
What is fraud?
Credit card fraud happens whenever someone takes your credit card, or gets the account number and uses it to make purchases without your knowledge.
This can happen if:
- Your card is stolen from you
- Someone copies your card details, makes a duplicate and uses it to buy goods or services
- The details of your credit card are obtained without you knowing, then goods can be bought by quoting your card details over the phone, internet or by mail order
What is identity theft?
Identity theft is when someone uses your name and personal information to open new accounts and then makes fraudulent purchases. They can do this by finding and using your discarded credit card, bank statements and other documents with your personal information, even pre-approved credit card offers you've thrown away.
Chip and PIN security
Here's how you can keep your card safe:
- Change your PIN (Personal Identification Number) to a number you can easily remember at any cash machine
- DON'T store your PIN in your mobile and DON'T write it down
- If you have forgotten your PIN and would like us to send you a PIN reminder, please call our automated service on 0870 850 7755. All you need to do is key in your account number and follow the instructions
Shopping securely
On the high street:
- Keep your card safe at all times and never lend it to anyone else
- Save your receipts and check them against your monthly statements
- Dispose of your card receipts carefully as they may include your card details
- Don't let anyone see your PIN when at a cash machine or in a store
On the phone:
- Always ask the retailer to confirm the exact amount you will be charged
- Don't ever tell anyone your PIN. You don't need to give your PIN to complete a transaction over the phone and no one needs to know your PIN number - not even your bank or police
- Don't give out your card details over the phone to a company you're not familiar with
Over the internet:
- Only shop at secure websites (look for the padlock or unbroken key symbol)
- When making a payment online check that the retailer’s internet address has changed from 'http' to 'https' to ensure the connection is secure
- Ensure that your computer software is up-to-date, and install and maintain antivirus software
- Never answer emails that ask for your personal, bank account or security information - even if they appear to come from your bank