When you're traveling, the last thing you want to worry about is fraud. With a few quick precautions before you go, you can focus on making memories instead of managing mishaps. Here’s how to keep your money and personal data safe while you’re away.
Protect your accounts and cards
Before you hit the road, take a few minutes to secure your accounts.
- Set up alerts: Most financial institutions, including Heartland Credit Union, offer customizable alerts for transactions, balances, and activity. These notifications can help you spot unusual activity right away, allowing you to take action quickly. Click here to learn how to set up alerts inside of HCU Digital Banking.
- Notify your financial institutions: Let your financial institutions know about your travel plans so they don’t flag legitimate transactions as fraud. This also helps them monitor for activity that truly is out of place.
- Use secure cards: Choose debit and credit cards with chip technology. These EMV chips provide stronger security than magnetic strips, making it harder for thieves to clone your card.
- Know your card protections: HCU credit cards come with 100% fraud protection and zero-dollar liability—meaning you aren’t responsible for unauthorized purchases. Make sure you understand what protections your other cards may (or may not) include.
- Be ATM-savvy: Use ATMs in well-lit, secure locations. Before inserting your card, check for signs of tampering like loose card slots or unusual-looking keypads.
- Bring some cash: It’s always a good idea to carry a little cash as a back-up or to avoid ATMs while you travel. Just be sure to store it securely and separate from your wallet to reduce risk.
Avoid public wi-fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient—but not always secure.
- Skip public wi-fi: Never log into your bank accounts while connected to a public wi-fi network, such as those in airports, hotels, or cafés. Hackers can easily intercept your data on unsecured connections. Disable automatic wi-fi connections on your devices to reduce the risk of accidentally connecting to an unsecured network.
- Consider using a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) adds a layer of encryption that makes it safer to browse, even on public networks.
Secure your devices
Your smartphone is a gateway to your personal information—treat it like your wallet.
- Install updates: Make sure your phone and apps are up to date. Software updates often include critical security patches to protect against new threats.
- Lock your devices: Use a passcode, PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition to secure your phone and tablets. If your device is lost or stolen, this can prevent someone from accessing your data.
- Enable security features: Turn on tools like “Find My Device,” which allow you to locate a lost device or erase its contents remotely.
Put your mail on hold
An overflowing mailbox is a goldmine for identity thieves.
- Request a mail hold: If you'll be away for more than a couple of days, ask the post office to hold your mail. This prevents important documents—like bank statements, bills, or credit card offers—from sitting unattended in your mailbox.
Be careful what you share on social media
It’s fun to share Instagram-worthy beach sunsets but consider holding off on sharing travel details until you’re home.
- Avoid real-time posts: Posting your vacation in real time can alert scammers or burglars that you're not home. Wait until you're back to share photos and stories.
A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your finances and personal information secure while you travel. If you're planning a trip and want help setting up alerts or understanding your card protections, stop by your local Heartland Credit Union branch or give us a call. We're here to help—wherever life takes you.
