Never has financial crime been as prolific as nowadays and it seems that there are thieves around every corner who are trying to get their mitts on your credit card details, online shopping accounts or equity release funds.
Anyone who uses a credit card is incredibly vulnerable to thieves who can get hold of your details in a variety of ways. If you use online shopping you have to be very careful to check the integrity of the retailer you are using and to check that the connection is encrypted. Even the most famous online stores are not immune from fraudulent attack and accounts held with some of the most respected companies have been compromised.
Paying face to face by credit card also has its dangers especially when used abroad with shops or hotels that you do not know.
Phishing is also very common and can take you by surprise, especially if you are not used to the wicked ways of the internet. Many people receive several phishing emails in any one week, pretending to be from their bank and asking them to follow through the link and enter their confidential details - always make sure you report these at once!
Another source of potential crime is through cash points and while this is slightly less common there have been many cases of crooks using a device so that they can read the details on your debit card.