10 Credit Card Payment Scams You Must Know (and How to Stay Safe)

Credit card payment scams are everywhere today. Scammers are clever, but you can be smarter. If you know their tricks, you can avoid losing money. In this blog, we’ll look at 10 common credit card scams and simple tips to protect yourself. We’ll also show how Fair Legal can help if you’ve already been scammed. 

1. Phishing Emails and Texts 

Scammers send fake messages that look like they are from your bank or card company. They ask you to “confirm” your details. Once you type them in, the fraudster has your info. 
- Never click links in random messages. Always log in directly on your bank’s official website. 

2. Fake Online Shopping Websites 

Fraudsters build websites that look professional and offer super-low prices. After you pay, you get nothing or a poor-quality product. 
- Before buying, check reviews, company details, and whether the site has “https://” with a lock icon. 

3. Overpayment Scam 

Someone pretends to buy something from you and pays extra by “mistake.” They then ask you to return the difference. Later, their original payment bounces, and you lose money. 
- Never send money back until a payment is fully cleared. 

4. Subscription Traps 

You think you’re signing up for a free trial, but your card keeps getting charged every month with hidden fees. 
- Read the fine print and check your statements regularly. 

5. Fake Customer Support Calls 

Scammers call you, claiming to be from your bank or card provider. They ask for your PIN, CVV, or OTP. Once you share, they steal your money. 
- Real banks never ask for full card details over the phone. 

6. Skimming Devices 

Fraudsters place hidden devices on ATMs or payment machines to copy your card information. 
- Always check the machine before inserting your card. If it looks loose or strange, don’t use it. 

7. Charity Scams 

Scammers pose as charities, especially during emergencies, asking for credit card donations. 
- Donate only through official charity websites or trusted organisations. 

8. Travel and Holiday Scams 

You may see fake holiday deals online — cheap flights, hotels, or tours. Once you pay, the deal vanishes. 
- Book only through trusted travel agencies or known platforms. 

9. Social Media Marketplace Fraud 

Fraudsters post products for sale on social media. They demand upfront payment and disappear after you transfer money. 
- Meet sellers in safe places and use secure payment methods with buyer protection. 

10. Investment and Loan Scams 

You are promised big returns or low-interest loans, but they ask for an upfront “processing fee.” Once paid, they vanish. 
- Be careful of offers that sound too good to be true. Always research before paying. 

What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed 

• Call your bank immediately to block the card. 

• Report the fraud to local authorities. 

• Keep all proof (emails, texts, receipts). 

• Contact Fair Legal, who specialise in helping people recover money lost to scams. 

How Fair Legal Helps 

Fair Legal (fairlegal.uk) supports victims of credit card scams with: 

• No-win, no-fee services (you don’t pay unless they win). 

• Clear legal guidance in simple language. 

• Full support from investigation to recovery. 

• Experience in financial scams to improve your chances of getting your money back. 

Final Words 

Credit card payment scams are rising, but awareness is your best defence. Stay alert, follow safe practices, and act fast if you spot fraud. If you’ve already lost money, don’t panic — Fair Legal can help you fight back and reclaim what’s yours.