It’s no secret that credit cards can lead to fraud, and a lot of that is happening through debit and credit cards. Identity Theft Resources Center said that 20 percent of all breaches in the last year included debit and credit card information.

Here are some steps you need to take to preserve your credit:

1. Watch your accounts with a keen eye.
2. Open new cards for payments.
3. Take advantage of free consumer protection services.
4. Monitor your credit for free.
5. Freeze your credit.

Image via Upgraded Points.