With phishing scams and data breaches on the rise, credit card fraud is a constant concern. We outline critical security measures to safeguard your card details and explain how card insurance protects you if fraud occurs.
Key Security Best Practices
- Choose Numberless Cards: Cards without printed card numbers or security codes (e.g. Sumitomo Mitsui Card NL) eliminate over-the-shoulder theft risks.
- Enable Real-Time Alerts: Configuring push notifications for card transactions lets you spot unauthorized charges immediately.
- Avoid Suspicious Websites: Never click direct links in SMS or phishing emails. Use official bookmarks or apps instead.
How Fraud Protection / Theft Insurance Works
Virtually all Japanese credit cards come with fraud protection that voids unauthorized charges.
Critical Conditions for Compensation
- Report Within 60 Days: You must report the fraudulent activity to the issuer and file a police report within a specified window (usually 60 days).
- PIN Confidentiality: If the transaction used your PIN (especially if it was simple like your birthday), it may be ruled negligence, waiving compensation.

