CHARGED AND CHEATED — What you Need to Know About Credit Card Scams
Credit Card Fraud in California: A Growing Threat to Consumers
If you've ever swiped your card at a gas pump or clicked a suspicious email link, you may have unknowingly placed yourself at risk. Credit card scams are becoming more sophisticated, and unfortunately, many Californians don’t know their rights or how to respond when fraud strikes.
At R23 Law, we believe in equipping consumers with knowledge—and legal protection. Below, we outline the most common types of credit card fraud and explain how our R23 Law California Consumer Protection Attorneys can help if you've been victimized.
Most Common Credit Card Scams in California
1. Card Skimming Devices at ATMs and Gas Stations
Skimming occurs when criminals install fake devices on legitimate card readers—such as those at ATMs or gas pumps. These devices clone your credit card data when you insert your card, enabling thieves to make unauthorized purchases or withdrawals.
Skimmers often look identical to real card readers, making them hard to detect. If you've fallen victim to this type of scam, it's vital to act quickly and understand your legal recourse.
2. Phishing and Social Engineering Scams
Phishing remains a widespread method of credit card fraud. Scammers may pose as your bank or a streaming service, contacting you via email or text with a link that prompts you to log in. Once you do, they harvest your credentials and access your accounts.
If you’ve entered your credit card details on a suspicious site, you may be eligible to dispute any resulting charges—and potentially hold the card issuer accountable.
What To Do If You Suspect Credit Card Fraud
Under the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA), you are legally entitled to dispute unauthorized charges on your credit card, typically up to $50 in liability. But here's what many consumers don’t realize: most credit card companies waive this liability altogether if fraud is promptly reported.
You can initiate a dispute by:
Writing a formal letter to your credit card company
Including detailed documentation of the fraudulent charges
Sending the dispute to the correct address (often specified on your billing statement)
Still, even when you follow these steps, some card issuers may delay or outright deny your claims. That’s where legal representation becomes essential.
When Credit Card Companies Don’t Cooperate, R23 Law Can Help
When fraud occurs, your bank or card issuer should support you—not add to your stress. If you’ve disputed a charge and received an inadequate response, you may have grounds for legal action under federal and California law.
R23 Law’s team of California Consumer Protection Attorneys has extensive experience helping fraud victims hold financial institutions accountable. Whether you’re facing ignored disputes, prolonged investigations, or denied refunds, we’re here to advocate for your rights.
Your Next Steps
If you're dealing with unauthorized credit card charges, don’t wait to act. The sooner you dispute the transaction, the stronger your position. And if your efforts to resolve the issue are being stonewalled, contact R23 Law immediately.
We offer free consultations, multilingual support, and a tireless commitment to consumer justice. Let us help you reclaim your peace of mind and financial stability.
Contact R23 Law’s California Credit Card Fraud Lawyers Today
Have you been the victim of a credit card scam? Has your bank failed to assist you? Don’t navigate this process alone. R23 Law's California Consumer Protection Attorneys are ready to help you fight back and hold the right parties accountable.
📞 Call us now or schedule your free consultation online.
