Card Cloning: How to Protect Your Money and Personal Information?

Card cloning can affect users of credit cards, debit cards, and rewards programs, regardless of age or financial situation. According to the 2025 report from the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, credit card and check fraud generated reported losses of more than USD 282 million in the United States.

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, Chase shared recommendations for families to protect their money and personal information. These measures also align with guidance from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on how to respond to unauthorized charges.

What is Card Cloning?

Card cloning occurs when someone obtains and uses a card’s data without authorization. Criminals can copy the number, expiration date, security code, or PIN.

One of the most well-known techniques is skimming. It involves installing a hidden device on an ATM, gas pump, or payment terminal. The device captures information when the victim inserts or swipes the card.

Information can also be stolen without physically copying the card. Phishing emails, fake websites, data breaches, and malware can expose banking credentials.

How to Detect a Cloned Card?

The first sign is usually a charge the cardholder doesn’t recognize. However, some scammers start with small purchases to verify the card remains active. Warning signs include:

• Unknown purchases, even for small amounts.
• Cash withdrawals the cardholder did not make.
• Notifications of account changes.
• Verification messages the person never requested.
• Access attempts from unfamiliar locations.
• Unexpected card rejections.
• Repeated charges or payments at stores not visited.

A monthly review may not be sufficient. Chase recommends frequently checking mobile or online banking to detect suspicious activity as soon as possible.

How to Prevent Card Cloning?

1. Monitor Account Activity

Frequent review allows identification of unknown charges before they accumulate. Cardholders should monitor both credit cards and accounts linked to debit cards.

Additionally, it’s advisable to check transactions after using the card at a gas station, ATM, or unfamiliar merchant.

2. Enable Real-Time Alerts

Notifications via text message, email, or application can alert when transactions occur.