Credit Card Applications Using A VPN
I wanted to put together a quick PSA type write up about something that has been causing some issues for people in the ToP Facebook Group. It is an issue with credit card applications using a VPN. This is particularly true with Chase applications, but it is a rule of thumb you should follow with all applications. Do not, I repeat, do not apply for a credit card, or any financial product for that matter, with your VPN activated. I know that we need all of the security we can get online these days, but you should turn it off before applying for your credit card of choice.
Some Of The Issues People Have Run Into
First off, some banks won't even let you access their site with a VPN active. The site may kick an error when you are trying to log in etc. More so than that, the banks may automatically deny your application for fraud / identity theft concerns. Here is what ToP Facebook Group member Alan had to say about his experience applying for a Chase card while using a VPN:
Hey everyone, I wanted to share my experience in case it helps someone avoid the headaches I went through. Like many of you, I've had issues with Chase flagging my applications for suspected identity theft. The last time, I even had to go into a branch office to resolve it.
Recently, I applied for a new credit card and got denied again. I called the support number, answered their verification questions, and was asked to send in additional proof of identity. Despite doing all that, I still received a denial letter due to suspected fraud.
Here’s the key issue: I use a VPN. Sometimes my VPN shows me as logging in from different cities across the country, which caused Chase to flag my account for potential identity theft. Once I explained the situation and confirmed my identity, they finally approved my application.
Lesson learned: If you’re applying for a Chase card, consider turning off your VPN to avoid unnecessary red flags. That said, your experience may vary, as Chase phone support has been the worst I've ever dealt with
This isn't a unique experience either. We have seen several reports of similar experiences within the group.
Another Tip: Apply From A Computer
Another thing I would note here is to do your credit card applications from a computer. Less mistakes are made this way, and sometimes clicking through applications from apps etc. do funky things when filling out applications.
Also remember to take your time while filling an application out. This isn't a race to be the first one out to recess like you are taking a math test in 2nd grade. You want to take your time with it and make sure the application is mistake free. I would also advise to avoid using autofill on your applications because it can sometimes put the wrong person's social security number etc. in there. Autofill can also add the wrong info to an application box, or add stuff to a box you were not intending to fill out at all. It is easy to miss this when it changes things you had previously filled out yourself before the autofill.
Credit Card Applications Using A VPN: ToP Thoughts
Hopefully this PSA helps some people avoid the potential pitfalls of filling out credit card applications using a VPN. The last thing you want to do is have to go into a branch to verify yourself, if there is even a branch in your area, or send in a whole bunch of documents to verify yourself. It adds a lot of unnecessary burden to an otherwise pretty simple process. Not to mention banking customer service call centers are not known for their knowledge or efficiency.
Let us know if you have run into issues filling out credit card applications with a VPN over in the ToP Facebook Group.
