Unauthorized Credit Card Charges: What to Do

Report an unauthorized charge quickly, secure the account, and preserve your records. Federal liability protections depend on the payment type and facts.

Contact the issuer

Use the number on the card, statement, or issuer site. Lock or replace the card and identify every unauthorized transaction.

Follow up in writing

A phone report is fast, but written notice creates a record. Use the billing-inquiries address and keep copies.

Check recurring access

Change passwords, remove unknown devices, review digital-wallet tokens, and update any legitimate recurring merchants after replacement.

Watch every account

Review bank and card statements plus reports for unfamiliar accounts or inquiries. Use IdentityTheft.gov if the problem extends beyond one card.