Keeping your cards safe while traveling

Planning a spring break getaway from the cold?

Before you leave the country, know how to avoid falling victim to fraud—so your vacation can remain just that.

Before you go

Choose your cards

Plan to take more than one form of payment, and make sure each type can make purchases and get money, said Carrie Culbertson, senior card services representative at Dupaco’s Pennsylvania branch in Dubuque, Iowa. EMV cards offer better protection against card fraud compared to magnetic stripe cards.

Know your fees

Find out what international fees your card issuers charge so you know what to expect.

Notify card issuers

Tell your card issuers when and where you will be traveling, so your cards will continue to work while you are away, Culbertson said. You can use Shine Mobile Banking within Dupaco’s app to notify Dupaco of upcoming travel plans to prevent fraud protection services from blocking use of your Dupaco MoneyCard and VISA credit card.

Set up eNotifier Alerts

Use Dupaco’s eNotifier Alerts to monitor activity on your accounts as it happens.

Store important phone numbers

Save the phone numbers for your card issuers in your phone in case you need to report a card stolen or lost. “If you lose your card, you lose that card number on the back of it,” Culbertson said.

Consider fraud-recovery coverage

Dupaco’s Family ID Restoration fraud-recovery program can help you respond to identity theft and fraud. “You want to have that protection before you travel,” Culbertson said.

While you’re away

Pay the safer way

For better protection against card fraud, utilize EMV cards, your mobile wallet or tap and go payments.

Stick with one ATM

Plan to use the same ATM during your trip—preferably one that is at your resort or a nearby financial institution. “If you always use the same one, it will be easier to recognize if something looks out of sorts with the machine,” Culbertson said.

Watch for skimming devices

Even when you’re away, it’s important to be on the lookout for skimming devices, which fraudsters attach to card readers to make counterfeit cards.

Report fraudulent activity immediately

If you lose your card or notice suspicious activity on your account, notify your card issuer immediately.

When you return

Change your PIN

Always change your cards’ PINs when you return. As an extra precaution, you can request to change your card numbers. “I know that can be frustrating, especially if you have merchants that automatically charge your accounts,” Culbertson said. “It comes down to your individual comfort level.”

Continue to monitor your accounts

Keep watching your eNotifier Alerts and statements, and report any suspicious activity to your card issuer immediately. “Members can notice suspicious activity even months after they return,” Culbertson said.