subject: How To Use Debit Cards [print this page] Debit cards have been in use for the last twenty years. If you still don't use one yet, after reading this article, you may want to get one for yourself.
One of the very obvious advantages of using debit cards is that eliminates the need to write checks. For people on the go (those who value greatly every seconds), debit cards are their next best friends. In times when we are in a hurry, we can just swipe our debit cards and payments are done. Another advantage of debit cards is that payments are made easy and hassle-free.
You can use your debit card number to pay for online purchases. They make online shopping very convenient. So the next time you shop online you can feel confident making a secure purchase. Now, you can also receive instant alerts and confirmation for your payments made through your account. You will receive a text message once payments are made. This new feature of debit cards is very a helpful one.
If you have a checking or savings account you can contact your bank about a debit card. Most of the time, banks can issue the cards as soon as you open a checking or savings account or they can just send you your card through mail. All transactions and payments made using your card will be credited to your checking account. Once you obtain your card, the next thing to do is activate it using an ATM, or by visiting the bank website.
Most banks issue debit cards. The very first bank to do this is the First National Bank in Seattle. They have been of existence since 1978 when the First National Bank of Seattle issued debit cards to their clients, mostly business executives, with large savings account. Since then, US banks such as HSBC, Bank of America, Citigroup, Wells Fargo, Citizens Bank and many more have been issuing debit cards.
It is also because of technology that there have been a growing number of fraudulent activities or uses of debit cards. The best thing to do is never share your PIN with anyone. It is better to be safe than sorry in the end. People who contact you by email or phone and ask for your PIN number need to be carefully screened. Do not ever give your PIN to these people. There have been a growing number of phishing scams, so beware. Another tip to avoid fraudulent use of debit cards is don't write down your card PIN on your debit card. There are people who do this (those who can't remember their PINs). Do not be one of them.
With the fast advancement of technology, who knows how these cards will be used in a year or so. Surely, they are very useful and advantageous. Once you fully understand how these debit cards work and what their uses are, you will feel more comfortable using them.
Copyright (c) 2009 Sherry Tingley
by: Sherry Tingley
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