A transaction security apparatus, including a card reader; an input device or receiver which inputs or receives transaction information regarding a transaction on or involving an account; a camera or video recording device which obtains or records a photograph or video clip of an individual involved in the transaction; a microphone or audio recording device which obtains or records an audio clip of the individual; a display; a processing device which processes information regarding the transaction and generates a notification message containing information regarding the transaction; and a transmitter which transmits the notification message to a communication device associated with an account holder. The notification message and the photograph, video clip, or audio clip, is transmitted to the communication device independently of any processing of the transaction by the transaction authorization processing computer.