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St Louis mortgage consumers are regularly bombarded with safety tips on how to safeguard the use of our credit cards and now we make use of debit cards when we make purchases in person, on the phone or the web.

However, one may be caught completely off guard to know that identity theft can occur to you even when you still hold your credit card or debt card in your control.

Most users have never heard of the term "skimming." This new wave of criminal offense utilizes modern technological advances where a criminal can much more easily grab your credit card information.

St Louis finance experts are claiming that credit and debt card skimming is now getting to be an epidemic while becoming more newsworthy because of recent skimming incidents such as those at Bank of America.

Retails stores that accept credit and debit cards such as dining establishments, bars, gas stations and ATMs are turning into more susceptible targets for skimming.

All a criminal has to do is get hold of your credit or debt card, scan it through a small hand held electronic equipment and in seconds has all your financial details that is stored on your card.

Criminals are also going for ATMs now. By using cameras or monitoring you as you key in your 4 digit pin code, these brutal white collar thieves can now suck your bank dry.

So, here are 7 tips to help keep your financial details private and safe:

1. Do not forget to always keep your bank or credit card firm updated on your personal information as you will need this to claim deceitful charges.

2. While you are thinking about it, go and write down all customer service phone numbers found on the back of your cards and keep this list in a safe place. Oh, and look at your monthly bank statement meticulously.

3. If an ATM is in bad shape or ruined, walk, better yet run away! A sign of a dirty machine may signify that it is not working or may be a criminal clone waiting to steal your information.

4. Another point that most consumers forget about is telling your credit card company when you go on travel and the destination of your travels. They can decline any suspicious charges much faster when they have this details.

5. If you see that the front of an ATM machine looks damaged or loose, this may be an indication that someone has attached a skimming unit.

6. If there are suspicious individuals casing the ATM, they probably want your cash or are wanting to watch you type your PIN number. If you ever lose your card in a machine, just leave. It may be best to graciously turn down support from someone who may have been noticing you. You can always call your bank and get a new card.

7. Cover the pin pad using your other hand when putting in your PIN number.

Another good piece of suggestion that was mentioned above is to check your balance on a periodic basis when your statement arrives.

For those who use their debit cards more frequently should also know that the laws defending credit card holders do not affect debit card purchases. So, you are more safe using a credit card.

St Louis finance analysts recommend always notify your bank or credit card company within two days of misplacing your cards. This may help restrict your losses to $50. The worst thing you can do is delay this needed phone call. You may end up suffering greater monetary losses by waiting.