Follow up on ebay security + watch your credit card abroad warning

[sheerwater]

Scams as reported previously are rife as are emails asking for your assistance in updating your bank details. One that got me however was a bargain priced digital camera on ebay. I was on the ebay site, clicked the item, was instantly redirected to somewhere in Anerica and boom down went the computer. The virus checker was 100% up to date and this was the way that this new virus was being spread. Could I report it. Nope. My machine was totally stuffed and had to be rebuilt from scratch when it was finally deduced that a virus was at fault. I therefore couldnt remember what I clicked on.
Secondly watch your credit card abroad. I tried to buy 700euros worth of ski lift tickets. I was told that the card wasnt working and had to pay cash. My credit card would not work again abroad again. It appeared that the credit card company had asked for authorisation and the busy attendant couldnt be bothered to verify it. Result was my card was cancelled and couldnt be used abroad again. It did work in the UK.
Another trap easily walked into is the phonecall from your bank trying to sell insurance etc. Call usually starts '' Hello this is the ***** bank here, it it OK to speak'' (yes) OK before we go any further can we just confirm the first 2 letters of your password etc.'' Lulled into a false sense of security I have given some details unwittingly before coming to my senses. This is totally contrary to bank policy yet they are encouraging it. So far I have been awarded £50, and £30 after moaning hard at their security.
Lastly dont expect your card to be hit immediately by the con merchants.
Your card lasts for ages even if you cancel it...you sign to this effect. A friend on holiday with us in Andorra had a phonecall saying that his card had been hit in New York and Thailand on the same day...thus the suspicion. He used to live in Thailand 2 years ago!!!
Finally make sure your credit card company has your mobile if you are overseas. My company phoned home and got my daughter when I was in Switzerland. Swiss spending and phone answered at home???. Cancel card.
It didnt occur to them that as I wasnt at home then the best check would be my mobile.They cancelled both my wifes card in the UK and mine abroad and caused chaos. Worth having their emergency security number when abroad.
Nige