Whatever you’re looking for from your vacation this holiday season, whether it’s sunshine, relaxation, adventure or exploration, having an experience that is hassle free, secure and enjoyable will be high on anyone’s priority list. Here are a few simple safe spending habits to follow from Mastercard to protect yourself against fraud and theft while traveling locally and abroad.
Before you go…
- Make a record of your passport and credit card information, including the contact number to reach your credit card issuing bank in case of emergency. Keep this record in a safe and secure place away from your passport and credit cards (i.e., not in your wallet or purse). Also, leave a copy of this information and your itinerary at home with a family member or close friend.
- Be sure to notify your bank of your travels, this will avoid triggering a fraud alert. A sudden increase in transactions in a foreign city could raise suspicion with your bank.
- Staying In Control. A big benefit for travelers is Mastercard’s In Control platform, the perfect planning tool for travel spend. Providing real-time alerts via SMS or e-mail, In Control helps you set spending limits and “turn on” or “turn off” your credit, debit and small business cards at individual retailers or in specific countries. Once set-up, you can then access In Control either through your bank’s mobile app and website or at a standalone site or app.
- Carrying large amounts of cash while adventuring unknown territory can be dangerous. Mastercard debit and credit cards enable you to shop safely without any hassles.
- There’s nothing fun about lost luggage or missed flights, and nothing beats fast and generous compensation to help you through a tight spot. Check to see if your card offers protection that reimburses you for replacing essential items in your baggage.
- Clean out your wallet by taking out everything but the essentials. The more items and pieces of information a thief gets, the more damage they can do.
While you’re there…
- Make sure to use an EMV-enabled card with embedded chip in it when you travel. The cards are widely used across the world. Given their enhanced technology, chip cards protect your account information from fraud and are more secure than cash or a regular card. Tip: make sure you set up a PIN before traveling as many retailers require a PIN.
- Use a credit card for purchases because it’s the safest and most reliable way to spend while you travel. Mastercard is accepted around the world and you’re protected by Mastercard Zero Liability from unauthorised transactions in case of a lost or stolen card. Keep your card with you at all times and never leave it in your hotel room.
Upon return…
- Keep receipts for your credit card purchases in a safe place, throughout your travels. When you get home cross-check your saved receipts against your e-statement. Notify your card issuer immediately if you see any unusual or unexpected items.
There is nothing more rewarding than a holiday and the end goal is to return home feeling relaxed and fulfilled. Mastercard is committed to protecting their cardholders which is why we have a multifaceted approach to securing transactions. With safety and security being a main focus, Mastercard is constantly working to provide better and safer payment options, all with the aim of ensuring your peace of mind.
