By Scott Cooke, Communications and Public Information Director for the SCDCATemps are warming up and vacation season is right around the corner! But unfortunately, fraudsters dont take a summer break.Make these tips a part of your travel plans to help keep your personal information and hard-earned money safe as you hit the road.Set up account alerts.Account alerts help you track activity like purchases, low balances, and more! The options are almost endless as you can tailor them to your liking.
You can also choose how youd like to receive the alert (i.e.text/email).Let your bank know.If you plan to travel, tell your financial institution.
This will help you avoid having to deal with a blocked card in the middle of a trip.Know who to call.If your card suddenly stops working or gets lost, youll need to contact your bank to fix the problem.Make a note of your banks contact information, especially if youre traveling overseas, since the toll-free number on the back of your card may not work outside the US.Leave unnecessary payment methods at home.
Dont travel with all your credit cards, checks, etc.Only take what you plan to use.Review the terms and conditions of your reservation.The terms and conditions of your reservation or rental agreement will help you determine how cancellations are handled by the hotel, rental company, or booking agent.
Oftentimes, consumers are not automatically entitled to a refund or credit if they decide to cancel.Travel scams.Whether its a free vacation offer, robocalls about vacation deals, or fake vacation rental listings, scammers know consumers are looking for an inexpensive way to take a trip.Never pay fees or taxes for a free vacation.
If youre looking to book a vacation property, beware of scammers that hijack real listings.Search online for complaints or multiple listings using different names.Beware of free Wi-Fi and USB charging ports.Think twice before you connect.
Public Wi-Fi networks are not secure.This means that anyone may see what you are doing when you are connected.Consider using a VPN or a personal/mobile hotspot.
People can also gain access to information on your device when you use the USB cables at public charging stations, such as gate kiosks at airports.Guard your personal or financial information.If you are contacted by someone asking you for your personal information while traveling, be sure to confirm their identity first and confirm why they need your information.Dont give your information to someone who does not need it.As with most things, preparing a bit on the front end can save you a lot of hassle and headache.
But you should stay on guard even after your trip.Closely monitor your financial statements and accounts, checking for any suspicious items.Reach out to your financial institution and let them know about any unauthorized activity.For more information on safeguarding your information, visit SCDCAs website at consumer.sc.gov or call 800-922-1594.
Publisher: Life Plan Community ( Read More )
