Credit cards account for a large part of how we spend. They’re convenient, generally secure, easier to track spending than cash and allow you to build your credit when you use them responsibly. Unfortunately, credit cards and account holders can also fall victim to scammers and those wishing to steal information.

Remaining vigilant in protecting your credit accounts is more important than ever with the rise of credit card scams and fraud. Read on to learn about 6 common credit card scams you should be aware of.

1. Card Skimmers

Credit card skimming is when scammers place a not-easily-detected device over the area where you swipe your credit card. The device will read and copy your card’s information so that fraudulent purchases and cards can be made using your account. Fortunately, the increase in usage of cards with chips has helped reduce the instances of this happening, but it is still one of the more popular methods of stealing card information. If you are still in the habit of swiping your card, avoid using it in less-monitored places such as ATM’s and gas pumps and go inside the establishments instead.

2. Wi-Fi Scam

You should always be wary when using public Wi-Fi as your security is not protected. Scammers will sometimes set up their own Wi-Fi hotspots and steal information from those who use the connection. As a rule, try not to use any Wi-Fi that isn’t password protected, and if you do have to use public Wi-Fi, don’t enter any private information or account information.

3. Fraud Alert Scams

Your credit card company will typically alert you if they detect any abnormal or potentially fraudulent usage. However, scammers have been known to impersonate your credit card company, call you to report an incident, and then ask you to verify your information. Never give out your account information to anyone who calls. If you want to double check the validity of the call, hang up and call your credit card company directly to ask them about the potential fraud.

4. Card Not Present Fraud

This type of fraud is incredibly common and merely requires the scammer knowing your credit card number, expiration date, and the three-digit security code present on the back. Often the card number and expiration date are stolen online or through the mail, and the security code is guessed. Online purchases are then made using your card information without actually having the card present.

5. Account Takeover Fraud

This type of fraud can be especially frustrating. Scammers will steal your personal information, such as your name, date of birth, address, online passwords, and social security numbers and then proceed to contact your credit card company, change your address and request duplicate copies of your credit card. Be sure to check in on your accounts often and verify any charges made. Report any fraudulent activity immediately so your credit card company can freeze your accounts. This type of fraud can be especially frustrating, unfortunately, as it is essentially a form of identity theft and requires closing and reopening of accounts.

6. Fraudulent Applications

This type of fraud can happen when your identity is stolen or when you incur mail theft. Scammers will take your personal information (name, social security number, date of birth) and then apply for new lines of credit using your information and have the credit cards mailed to their address. This type of fraud can be trickier to catch as the money is not coming directly out of an account you own. Closely monitoring your credit report for any indications of fraudulent activity can help you find and stop instances of this type of fraud.