Credit Card Fraud and You

A number of retailers have had security breaches with credit and debit cards.  At times, there may not be much you can do but there are steps you can take to minimize the damage.  This recent article in the NY Times mentions a few things you can do as a consumer to protect yourself:

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/15/your-money/credit-and-debit-cards/consumers-not-powerless-in-the-face-of-card-fraud.html?ref=business&_r=0

In the next year and a half, credit card companies plan to begin using more smart chip technology.  These cards are especially helpful for international travel where they are often the standard overseas.  It's much more secure than a magnetic strip.  In fact, some US credit cards already offer this advanced security feature.  If you're concerned about security (or want to see want the future looks like today), here's a list of credit cards that already have smart chips:

http://www.kiplinger.com/article/credit/T016-C000-S002-4-credit-cards-with-smart-chips.html

Finally, I came across an interesting story on Wendy's:

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/14/business/media/wendys-turns-up-volume-on-adoption-drive.html?ref=business

Apparently, they've done a lot of charity work for children and adoptions.  It wasn't something they advertised very much.  While their promotion strategy is changing, it gives you some idea of the sort of things one company can do to make a positive difference in society.  Until next time, catch me in the library.  Enjoy spring break too!