Protecting University Credit Cards
Common Types of Credit Card Fraud and Misuse
Employee Misuse
Employee misuse is the intentional or unintentional use of a university credit card in violation of university policies or procedures. Employees who are issued a university credit card are responsible for reading and understanding the Cardholder Agreement and completing all required training. Misuse of a university credit card may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
Merchant Fraud
Merchant fraud occurs when a merchant uses credit card information without the cardholder's authorization or in violation of its merchant agreement.
Merchant Disputes
A merchant dispute occurs when the cardholder authorized the transaction but disagrees with the amount charged or believes the goods or services received did not match what was ordered or expected.
External Fraud / Identity Theft
External fraud or identity theft occurs when an unauthorized third party uses a stolen credit card, card information, or personal information to make fraudulent purchases or commit identity theft without the cardholder's knowledge.
Compromised Card
A compromised card is an account whose information is believed to be in the possession of unauthorized individuals with malicious intent. When JPMorgan identifies a potentially compromised university credit card, Purchasing and Travel will work with the cardholder to close and replace the account before fraudulent activity occurs.
Data Breach
A data breach occurs when a merchant, payment processor, or financial institution experiences unauthorized access to sensitive payment information. Breaches may result from network intrusions, stolen payment-processing equipment, or card-skimming devices installed on payment terminals.
Protecting Yourself from Fraud and Identity Theft
Protect Your Wallet
- Carry only the identification and payment cards you need.
- When traveling, carry only your university credit card and, if necessary, one personal credit card. Leave all other credit cards at home.
- Be aware of your surroundings while traveling. Airports, hotels, conferences, and other unfamiliar environments often present opportunities for theft.
Keep Important Contact Information Accessible
- Save JPMorgan Customer Service in your phone: 800-316-6056.
- Record the last four digits of your university credit card account number (never the full account number) along with your employee ID in a secure location. This information will help JPMorgan locate your account if your card is lost or stolen.
- Save the Purchasing and Travel office number: 801-422-3872. After-hours travel agents may be able to assist during emergencies and help connect you with a university credit card administrator when needed.
Protect Your Personal Information
- Never provide sensitive information over the phone unless you initiated the call.
- Do not respond to emails, text messages, or other unsolicited communications requesting personal or financial information.
- Use your credit card only on secure websites. Verify that the website address begins with https:// before entering payment information.
Protect Your Credit Card
- Sign the back of your credit card immediately after receiving it.
- Never write your PIN on your credit card or keep it in your wallet.
- Whenever possible, keep your credit card within your sight while a merchant processes your transaction.
- Do not lend your university credit card to another individual. Department purchasing cards may be checked out to authorized users only if a checkout log is maintained documenting who has possession of the card.
Monitor Your Account Activity
- University credit card transactions should be reviewed regularly in Workday.
- Report lost cards, suspicious transactions, or unauthorized activity immediately. Prompt reporting significantly reduces the potential impact of fraud and helps protect both you and the university.
Updated June 26, 2026