Here's What Happens When Your Debit Card Triggers a Fraud Alert

While it feels like a major inconvenience, a fraud alert is actually a protective block placed on your account when a transaction doesn't match your usual spending patterns.

If this happens to you, the first thing to know is that your money isn't necessarily gone; it's just temporarily locked. You need to immediately check your phone for a text message or a push notification from your bank's app. Responding "Yes" to confirm the purchase will usually lift the block instantly, though you'll likely need to ask the cashier to run the card a second time.

Why your card was flagged in the first place

Banks use all sorts of strategies to build a "normalcy profile" for your account. An alert is triggered when a purchase falls outside these parameters.

Common triggers include making a physical purchase far from your home zip code, a sudden high-dollar transaction at a store you've never visited, or several small "test" purchases made in quick succession.

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How to handle a legitimate fraud alert

If the alert was triggered by a purchase you didn't make, the situation is more serious.

You must inform the bank immediately, usually by replying "No" to the text alert or calling the number on the back of your card. The bank will permanently deactivate your 16-digit card number and mail you a replacement to prevent further theft.

Ways to prevent future false alarms

While you can't always avoid these alerts, you can minimize the headache by keeping your bank updated on your habits.

• Set travel notices: Even if your bank says they aren't required, logging your destination in the app before a trip can prevent geographic blocks.
• Update your contact info: If your bank has an old cellphone number, you won't receive the SMS alert that allows for an instant fix.
• Carry a backup: I've written about personal finance for years, and my #1 rule is to never rely on a single card. Always carry a backup credit card or have a digital wallet (like Apple Pay) ready to go.

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Don't ignore the "silent" alerts

Sometimes a bank won't block the card but will still send an alert for a suspicious, smaller purchase. Always review these notifications immediately.

Catching a $1 "test" charge today could prevent a $1,000 theft tomorrow. If you're ever in doubt, log into your mobile banking app to "freeze" the card yourself while you investigate the charges.