How can I check for and monitor any unauthorized transactions or charges on my accounts?

There are several steps you can take to check for and monitor any unauthorized transactions or charges on your accounts:

1. Review your account statements regularly: Make it a habit to review your credit card and bank account statements on a regular basis, at least once a month, to check for any unfamiliar transactions or charges.

2. Set up alerts: Most banks and credit card issuers allow you to set up alerts to notify you of any unusual activity on your accounts. You can receive notifications via email or text message, for example, whenever a transaction is made above a certain dollar amount, or whenever a transaction occurs outside of your usual spending patterns.

3. Check your credit report: You can obtain a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus once a year. Reviewing your credit report can help you identify any unauthorized accounts or inquiries that may indicate identity theft or fraud.

4. Use identity theft protection services: There are a variety of identity theft protection services available that can help monitor your accounts and alert you to potential fraudulent activity. These services may include credit monitoring, dark web monitoring, and identity theft insurance.

By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself against unauthorized transactions or charges and detect any potential fraud early on.