Losses from credit and debit card fraud jumped 25% in 2007 to reach £535m, driven by a surge in crimes being committed overseas by criminals using stolen UK card details.

Unfortunately it doesn't take the criminal very long to find new ways to extract your money. Fraud on credit and debit cards has a high cost to society as the proceeds are often used to fund serious organised crime such as drug trafficking and terrorism. Follow the tips below to reduce your chances of becoming a victim.

look after your plastic

• Keep your card safe, and don't let it out of your sight when making a transaction.

• Most retailers employ masking of credit or debit card details on receipts; however, you should always take care when discarding receipts from your card transactions. If possible you should shred them, to prevent someone from acquiring information about you and your cards

• If you notice anything irregular (eg transactions that you don’t recognise or remember making) on your account contact your bank or card issuer immediately.

• Never write down your Personal Identification Number (PIN) and never disclose it to anyone, even if they claim to be from your card issuer or the police.

• When using a cash machine, stay alert and be wary of anyone who might be trying to watch you enter your PIN (called shoulder surfing) and don’t’ allow yourself to be distracted by anyone trying to talk to you.

• Report any lost or stolen cards to your card issuer immediately. The 24-hour emergency number should be on your last statement, log on to your card issuers website, or call a directory enquiries service for their details.

There's more!

• Don't leave cards unattended in a car, bag, briefcase or jacket pocket in a public place and keep your bag or briefcase on your lap.

• In a restaurant or other public place keep a grip on your wallet/bag. (Gangs target bags on the backs of chairs, on the floor)

• Sign new cards as soon as they arrive and cut up the old cards as soon as the new ones become valid.

• Do not use birthdays, telephone numbers or any other obvious codes as your PIN.

• Don't keep your cheque book with your cards.

• If you move home make sure that you redirect mail to you new address.

• At work keep your bag and other personal belongings locked in a cupboard or drawer.

• If you carry a bag, carry it firmly with the clasp towards you. A money belt or secure inside pocket is best for valuables.