For many people, debit cards are the perfect plastic. They offer most of the conveniences of credit cards with no risk of accumulating debt. But like credit cards, debit cards are vulnerable to rip-off artists. And debit card fraud is particularly scary because thieves can withdraw money directly from your checking account. Here's how debit fraud happens and how to protect yourself.

Whenever a breach of Equifax magnitude hits the media, it fosters uncertainty and leaves us wondering how to protect ourselves as consumers. The best practice is simple; be a good steward of your credit and money at all times.