If you’ve recently spotted a suspicious charge on your credit card that you didn’t authorize, you’re not alone, and you’re right to be concerned. Unauthorized credit card transactions are more than just an annoyance; they can be a sign of identity theft, a security breach, or a breakdown in the protections that banks and credit card companies are legally required to provide. At Feferman, Warren & Mattison, our consumer protection attorneys are here to help individuals take action when their rights are violated under both New Mexico and federal consumer laws. Contact our New Mexico consumer lawyers so we can get started working on your case today.
Unauthorized credit card transactions can take many forms, and they don’t always result from obvious criminal activity. Some may be the result of theft or hacking, but others can happen due to business errors, family disputes, or deceptive practices by merchants. Here are several common examples our Albuquerque consumer attorneys see frequently:
It’s important to note that under the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA), which applies to most credit card accounts, you have specific legal rights to dispute unauthorized charges and errors. But acting within the proper time frames is critical.
Few moments are more stressful than spotting a charge you didn’t make. Whether it’s a few dollars at an unfamiliar store or a large withdrawal you can’t explain, unauthorized credit card transactions can quickly spiral into financial and credit damage. Fortunately, both federal and state laws protect consumers in these situations, and knowing how those laws work is key to restoring your account and your peace of mind.
The Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA) limits consumer liability for unauthorized credit card transactions and requires card issuers to investigate disputes promptly and fairly. In most cases, your responsibility for fraudulent charges is capped at $50, and many card companies voluntarily waive that amount entirely when a report is made in a timely manner.
If only your card number (not the physical card) was stolen or misused, you generally aren’t liable for any part of the loss. However, these protections depend on compliance with the FCBA’s written dispute process and notice deadlines. Our firm helps clients prepare proper written disputes, track correspondence, and hold credit card companies accountable when they fail to meet their legal obligations.
Under the FCBA, a consumer has 60 days from the date their billing statement is issued to dispute an unauthorized charge in writing, at the address indicated on the billing statement. The credit card company must then investigate the matter, explain its findings, and correct any verified errors. Unfortunately, many issuers either deny claims without sufficient review or close accounts improperly, leaving consumers to face additional harm. At Feferman, Warren & Mattison, we ensure that creditors follow federal investigation requirements, document their findings, and refrain from retaliatory or inaccurate credit reporting.
An unfamiliar charge is sometimes just one piece of a larger issue. Unauthorized use of a credit card may be connected to identity theft or other data compromises. Victims often discover additional fraudulent accounts or false inquiries on their credit reports. Federal law allows consumers to monitor their reports and place fraud alerts or credit freezes when appropriate, but these measures alone may not stop ongoing harm. Our firm works with clients to uncover the full scope of fraudulent activity, coordinate documentation across multiple institutions, and pursue remedies.
If an unauthorized charge results in false or damaging information on your credit report, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) provides a separate layer of protection. This law gives consumers the right to dispute inaccurate entries and requires credit reporting agencies to investigate and correct errors. When credit card companies or reporting agencies fail to follow the FCRA, they can be held liable for damages, including statutory penalties and attorney’s fees.
In addition to federal protections, the New Mexico Unfair Practices Act (UPA) prohibits deceptive or misleading billing practices. When a company charges you for something you didn’t authorize, conceals information about your account, or misrepresents your rights, the UPA may provide an avenue for recovery. We use this law to pursue additional remedies on behalf of clients who’ve been mistreated by financial institutions.
While some credit card disputes can be resolved informally, many consumers encounter obstacles, such as unanswered calls, denied claims, or even retaliation through negative credit reporting. If you’re facing any of the following, legal help can make a meaningful difference:
An experienced attorney can step in to enforce your rights under the FCBA, FCRA, and UPA, ensuring that your claim is taken seriously and that you’re fully compensated for the harm you’ve suffered.
You shouldn’t have to fight a powerful financial institution on your own. At Feferman, Warren & Mattison, we advocate for consumers throughout Albuquerque and across New Mexico. If you’ve been affected by unauthorized credit card transactions and aren’t getting the help you deserve, we’re here to step in. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
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