Are you traveling this summer? Let us know the dates and location(s) you will be traveling to so we may enhance debit card monitoring and ensure your debit card will work while you are there. You may update this information in your mobile app by clicking on Cards and then Manage Travel Plans. Or, you can give us a call at 800.644.9275 and speak to a customer service representative.
This is also a good time to verify your contact information to assist in verifying possible fraud transactions. Continue reading to learn more about travel scams.
ATM skimming:
While many tourists are aware of risks such as pickpocketing in crowded areas or aggressive buskers, they might not know about a far more damaging scam: ATM skimming.
In ATM skimming, sophisticated criminals target ATM users to steal extra money from ATM transactions or even drain bank accounts. Installing skimming devices on ATMs or other card readers (e.g. gas stations) to capture card details and withdraw funds from accounts.
How to avoid this scam:
- Be very selective about the ATMs you use
- Treat all third-party ATMs in bars, restaurants, and shops as untrustworthy, as scammers are more likely to compromise them
- Only use ATMs at secure bank branches
- Only use card readers at gas stations that have the tap option
General Tips to Avoid Vacation Scams:
- Avoid wiring money or using a prepaid debit card to pay for your vacation. These payments are the same as sending cash. Once the money is sent, there is no way to get it back. When paying with a credit card, the charges can be disputed.
- During peak travel seasons, scammers often create fake websites or send phishing emails that mimic reputable travel agencies, airlines, and hotel chains. These websites may offer "too-good-to-be-true" discounts only to steal your payment information. Check the website for links to the company's social media accounts. If they do have social media accounts, check their activity and see if any other users have left reviews or voiced complaints.
- For airline travel, delays, and cancelations, always contact the airline through its official app, website, chat, phone number, or in person at the airport. Don’t give out personal information or confirmation numbers to unverified individuals claiming to be from an airline or travel app.
- Fake Travel Documents: Be wary of websites that charge for services such as visas or international driving permits that are available through legitimate government channels.
- Trust your instincts! If something feels off, it’s OK to walk away from a suspicious person or venue.
What to Do When Scammed Out of Money While Traveling
If you experience theft or financial loss due to a scam while traveling, it's essential to report the incident to both the local police and your bank.
How to Report a Scammer to the Police
To report a scam while abroad, start by contacting your country’s embassy. They can provide guidance on how to report the incident to local authorities. When speaking with embassy officials, use the phrase “victim of crime” to clearly explain your situation.
How to Report Travel Fraud - Online
To report online travel fraud, visit ReportfraudFTC.gov and the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) .
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