RIVERWOODS, Ill. & HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In the final dash of the holiday shopping season, consumers should not overlook the need to protect themselves against fraud and identity theft.



Discover Financial Services (NYSE: DFS) and PULSE, one of the nation’s leading ATM/debit networks, are urging consumers to take care when using credit and debit cards in order to guard their identities and finances while finishing holiday shopping.



“Credit card fraud can affect anyone, at any time, but consumers are particularly vulnerable around the holidays,” said Jack McCoy, vice president of corporate security for Discover Financial Services. “However, there are a number of tips that smart shoppers can adopt to reduce the likelihood of falling victim to scammers, hackers and credit card thieves.”



“Debit cards are also susceptible to fraudulent activity,” added Cindy Ballard, executive vice president of PULSE. “Between all of the holiday expenses like gifts, travel and entertainment, it can be difficult to keep track of accurate and potentially fraudulent expenses.”



Both McCoy and Ballard agree about the importance of monitoring spending on a regular basis. Whether working from a small or large budget, consumers should keep track of their daily spending by monitoring checking accounts and account statements online. This will keep consumers up to date on credit limits and account balances and give them the opportunity to review accounts for fraudulent activity.



In terms of managing spending, consumers are encouraged to look around the house for gift cards that might have value. If necessary, combine two or three cards to purchase a gift without affecting other money set aside for gift giving.



Plus, look for promotional codes and discounts that many retailers are offering around the holidays. These can provide great deals without breaking the budget.



Many e-retailers offer promotional codes that give discounts at checkout or free shipping. There are also ways to get extra cash while shopping online. Discover Cardmembers can earn Double Cashback Bonus through the end of the year on up to $1,000 in purchases when they use their card to buy gifts anywhere online. Shopdiscover.com, Discover’s online shopping portal, offers cardmembers the ability to earn five to 20 percent Cashback Bonus at participating retailers when making purchases through the site.



These spending and security tips and tools will help keep consumers’ finances safe and secure through the holiday season. For additional information about the difference between debit and credit cards, and debit card usage information, visit www.debitfacts.org.