SWIPED AND STRESSED — What to Do When Fraudulent Credit Card Charges Appear
Unauthorized charges on your credit card?
R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys explain your rights under the Fair Credit Billing Act and what steps to take next.
When you open your credit card statement and spot a charge you didn’t make, panic sets in. Whether it’s a late-night Amazon order you never placed or a gas station purchase two counties away, these unauthorized charges are more than frustrating—they could be signs of fraud or a data breach.
At R23 Law, we understand how quickly a minor transaction can turn into a major legal headache. That’s why our California Consumer Protection Attorneys help clients dispute fraudulent charges and hold companies accountable under the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA).
How Unauthorized Credit Card Charges Occur
Fraudulent charges can stem from several sources:
Data breaches at retail or e-commerce companies.
Card skimming at ATMs, gas stations, or convenience stores.
Phishing scams or identity theft, where criminals impersonate you to gain control of your account.
Once your information is compromised, criminals may rack up charges or initiate a full account takeover—locking you out while they access your credit.
Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA)
The Fair Credit Billing Act is a federal law that gives you the right to dispute billing errors, including unauthorized charges, on open-end credit accounts like credit cards.
Under the FCBA, you can:
Dispute unauthorized charges over $50
Request written clarification of suspicious transactions
Dispute charges for undelivered goods or services
Challenge incorrect billing amounts or duplicate charges
Once your dispute is submitted in writing, your card issuer must acknowledge it within 30 days and complete an investigation within two billing cycles. If the charge is deemed fraudulent, it must be removed from your account.
Steps to Take Immediately After Spotting a Fraudulent Charge
If you see a charge you didn’t authorize, take these steps promptly:
Call your credit card company to report the fraud.
Request a new card number if you suspect your data was stolen.
Submit a written dispute by certified mail to preserve your rights under the FCBA.
Keep records of all communication and responses.
Follow up within the required timeframes—you have 10 days to appeal if the credit card company denies your dispute.
Even if you initiate a dispute over the phone, written documentation is required to trigger your full legal rights under federal law.
When Credit Card Companies Get It Wrong
Credit card issuers don’t always get it right. Some fail to investigate thoroughly or dismiss legitimate disputes. If this happens, don’t assume the fight is over.
R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys routinely assist clients whose legitimate disputes were mishandled or ignored. We know the tactics used to delay or deny valid claims—and we know how to hold companies accountable.
Don’t Let Fraud Go Unchecked
Fraudulent credit card charges can escalate into major financial consequences if left unresolved. If your dispute is mishandled or you're locked out of your account due to identity theft, you need strong legal support.
At R23 Law, our attorneys have extensive experience navigating the Fair Credit Billing Act and other consumer protection laws. We represent California residents in disputes against credit card issuers and financial institutions who fail to follow the law.
Call on R23 Law’s Consumer Protection Team
If you’ve been hit with unauthorized charges and the credit card company isn’t cooperating, it’s time to assert your rights.
R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys are here to advocate for consumers facing unfair credit practices. With multilingual services, deep experience, and a commitment to justice, our team is ready to protect your financial reputation.
📞 Contact R23 Law today for a free consultation
Take control of your credit—and your peace of mind—before the damage spreads.
