Buzz
Reviewing your credit card statement and spotting unfamiliar charges can be unsettling. It might be something harmless, like a forgotten purchase, or something more serious, such as fraud. Often, these mysterious charges are recurring subscriptions, unexpected fees, or transactions listed under unfamiliar merchant names, like a parent company or payment processor. For instance, TST* likely stands for Toast, a point-of-sale system used by many restaurants. In rare cases, the charge could be an error or outright theft. Here’s how to investigate and address unauthorized transactions.
Decode confusing credit card charges with WhatsThatCharge
To start, make it a habit to regularly review your credit card and bank statements to spot any unfamiliar transactions. If you notice something unusual, try recalling your activities around the time of the purchase. It’s possible you simply forgot about a small expense, like grabbing coffee or making an online order.
You should also review older statements for similar transactions, which could point to recurring subscriptions (like APL*ITUNES.COM/BILL) or fees. Additionally, check with anyone who has access to your account, such as a joint user or a family member on a shared plan linked to your card.
If you’re still unsure, paste the full transaction details into Google to see if others have identified the charge. Websites like WhatsThatCharge.com, a crowd-sourced database, can also provide insights. If these steps don’t help, contact your card issuer directly. They may have access to merchant details and can clarify the charge for you.
Steps to file a credit card fraud claim
If your investigation confirms the charge is fraudulent, initiate a claim with your card issuer. This can typically be done by calling the number on the back of your card or through your online banking portal.
Your issuer will deactivate your current card and issue a replacement. Under federal law, you’re liable for no more than $50 of fraudulent charges—and nothing after you report the fraud. Many credit cards also offer additional fraud protection benefits.
Keep in mind that this process differs from filing a dispute, which is used to correct billing mistakes such as duplicate charges or overcharges. Typically, disputes must be submitted within 60 days of the transaction date.
