What do you know about accidental credit card fraud?

You felt shocked when Florida law enforcement accused you of credit card fraud. Maybe you go out of your way to use your card properly. Where did the accusations stem?

GOBankingRates explains how consumers commit accidental credit card fraud. Learn where you slipped up in your financial practices as you build your legal defense.

Disputing charges you made

Depending on your credit card usage, you may not recognize all your charges. If you dispute a charge that you made and forgot about, you could commit fraud. Think twice while reviewing your credit card statements, as some merchants may have different names on the document. Research the name first before you dispute the charge.

Inflating the truth on credit card applications

On credit card applications, you may overestimate or inflate your annual income to “close enough.” This represents fraud, and the same applies to stretching the truth about your employment status.

Signing another person’s credit card receipt

While out to dinner, a friend may ask you to sign her or his credit card receipt. This could land you in hot water if your friend later disputes the charge.

Using a friend’s or family member’s card without consent

Say that your friend or relative let you use her or his credit card before. You may think nothing of making a minor purchase with the card; you may even plan to pay the person back. If the card’s owner disputes your charge because you did not repay the purchase, you could face credit card fraud charges.

Take precautions with your credit card and with your friends’ and relatives’ cards. One wrong swipe or authorization could become an act of unintentional fraud.