// Guides
Compromised credit card
When credit-card data is stolen or misused, speed counts: block the card, inform your bank and challenge unauthorised charges on time.
Updated: 2026-06-19
Immediate steps
- 1Block the card immediately — via your bank or the central German blocking hotline 116 116.
- 2Inform your bank/card issuer and request a replacement card.
- 3Review current transactions and document every unauthorised charge.
- 4Challenge unauthorised charges on time (chargeback via your bank).
- 5Secure the device and affected accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA.
- 6For fraud, file a police report and preserve evidence.
What not to do
- Do not wait — the longer the card is open, the greater the damage.
- Never give out the PIN or full card data by phone or via a form.
- Do not hire dubious “chargeback services” — use your bank.
When professional help makes sense
We help structure the incident, preserve evidence and trace where the data may have leaked — so you can challenge charges in an orderly way.
Get in touchCommon questions
- Will I get the money back?
- For unauthorised charges, reimbursement is often possible if you challenge on time and there was no gross negligence. There is no blanket guarantee.
- How do I block the card quickly?
- Via your bank app/hotline or the central German blocking hotline 116 116.
- How did they get my data?
- Often via phishing, fake shops or data leaks. A leak check and secure payment routes help prevent it.