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Merchant Compromise: What you need to know (and do)

Your security is our top priority

Your security is our top priority

A merchant compromise is an organized theft of ATM, debit card or credit card information

When a merchant compromise happens, Bank of America receives information from multiple outside sources such as Visa®, MasterCard®, American Express® or law enforcement agencies. Due to the sensitivity of information, we are unable to provide the name of the merchant or where the compromise has occurred.

How we protect you

  • Our award-winning cybersecurity team delivers comprehensive security 24/7
  • We continuously monitor your transactions for suspicious activity
  • We alert you to potential fraud through the mobile app, text alerts, email or phone
  • We embrace responsible information collection, processing and privacy policies
  • We develop resources (like our fraud checklist), that empowers you to help protect yourself against fraud and scams

What you need to know

  • If there’s a merchant compromise potentially impacting your account, we may issue a new card to you if your account information has been compromised
  • Activate your new card by following the instructions on the card’s sticker
  • Destroy your old card (you can keep your current PIN when you use your new card)
  • Be sure to update any card information associated with recurring payments, stores or services and in your digital wallet
  • Suspect a charge on your account is fraud? Tap the Erica icon on the mobile app and type or say, "dispute transaction"

For your peace of mind

Is it safe to use my new card?

Yes. We're replacing your card as a safety measure to help ensure that your account information is protected. The new card has a new account number. Please activate your new card and continue to use it as you normally would.

What if I think my credit, debit or ATM card is being fraudulently used?

Review your recent transactions and ensure they are all yours. Sometimes a single unauthorized charge may be an error and can be resolved quickly by contacting the merchant. If you see transactions you don’t recognize, call the number on the back of your card immediately to report it.

  • 800-793-5755 (credit cards)
  • 800-841-1980 (small business credit cards)
  • 866-700-3016 (ATM & debit cards)

What are the impacts to my Online Banking experiences?

When you’re notified that a new credit card is on the way, your new credit card account information may be unavailable for up to one business day. Once the transition from the old account number to the new account number is completed, all functionalities will be available on your new card. The last four digits of your account will change to the last four digits of the new account. The online version of your statement will show the new account number.