What to Do After Debit Card Fraud

It is that sinking feeling in your stomach. You get a text message asking if you just spent $500 in another country, or you check your app and see a transaction you didn’t make.

Don’t panic. But do not wait.

Unlike credit cards (where the bank’s money is stolen), debit card fraud steals your real cash. Speed is your best defense. The faster you act, the higher the chance you get 100% of your money back.

Here is the exact step-by-step emergency plan to execute right now.

Step 1: The “App Freeze” (Do This First)

Do not waste time finding the customer service phone number yet. Most modern banking apps allow you to lock your card instantly.

1. Open your Banking App.

2. Go to Card Management or Security Settings.

3. Look for a toggle that says “Lock Card,” “Freeze Card,” or “Disable Transactions.”

4. Turn it ON.

Why: This instantly blocks any new attempts. Hackers often start with a small “test charge” ($1) followed immediately by a massive charge. Freezing it stops the big one.

[Insert Screenshot here: Your own banking app showing the ‘Lock Card’ toggle]

Step 2: Call the Number on the Back of Your Card

Crucial Warning: Do NOT search “Wells Fargo Customer Service” on Google. Scammers buy ads on Google that look like official bank numbers. If you call them, you are giving your info to a second set of scammers.

• Flip your actual debit card over.

• Call the toll-free number printed on the back.

• Select the option for “Fraud” or “Lost/Stolen Card.”

What to say: “I have identified unauthorized transactions. I have locked the card in the app. I need to dispute these charges and request a new card number.”

Step 3: Check for “Ghost” Subscriptions

While you are on the phone/app, look at your transaction history for the last 30 days.

• Look for: Small charges ($0.99, $1.00) from generic names.

• The Scam: Thieves often sign up for subscriptions (streaming, porn sites, cloud storage) to test the card quietly before draining the account.

• Action: Tell the bank about every suspicious charge, no matter how small.

Step 4: The Cleanup (Update Your “Plumbing”)

Once the bank cancels your old card and issues a new one, you have a messy job to do. You need to update your payment info everywhere.

However, Wait 2-3 days. Don’t update your Netflix or Amazon account immediately. Scan your computer/phone for malware first. If your card was stolen because your computer has a virus (keylogger), typing your new card number immediately just hands it to the hackers again.

Will I Get My Money Back?

In most cases, Yes.

• The Law: Under the Electronic Fund Transfer Act (in the US), your liability is limited if you report it quickly.

  • Reported within 2 business days: Max loss is $50.

  • Reported after 2 days: Max loss can be $500.

  • Reported after 60 days: You might lose everything.

• The Reality: Most major banks have a “Zero Liability Policy” that protects you even better than the law requires, provided you were careful with your PIN.

Summary Checklist

1. Freeze the card in the app immediately.

2. Call the official number on the back of the card.

3. Scan your PC for viruses before using the new card.

4. Monitor your statement daily for the next week.