One of the more recent credit card scams is pretty slick as they provide YOU with all the information, except the one piece which they want.

A person (the scammer) calls saying that they are calling from the Security and Fraud Department of Visa or Mastercard.  Your card number has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern and they are calling to verify if you purchased an item for just under the £500 purchase pattern that flags most cards.

When you confirm that you did not purchase this item they then say that you will be credited with the amount concerned and the statement sent to your address; your address is quoted and you are asked to confirm it.  They then say that they will be proceeding with the fraud investigation but need to verify that you have your card in your possession and will ask you to turn your card over and quote the security numbers.

THIS IS THE SCAM.  The scammer wants the 3 digit security number on the reverse of the card so that they can make purchases on the internet with YOUR card details.

Please be very careful what confidential information you give over the telephone.  If you are in any doubt at all ring the telephone number on the reverse of your credit card statement.  REMEMBER, your bank will not ask you for details, they have them already.  For identity purposes they have other information.