Using a debit card is safer than carrying cash and more convenient than writing checks. That’s especially true when traveling. Following some simple guidelines will help insure a safe, worry-free trip.
Keep your bank informed.
Letting your bank know where you’ll be traveling is the best way to avoid blocked debit card transactions. This is especially true when traveling outside the United States. Due to the potential for international fraud, most banks automatically restrict international transactions. With proper notification, debit card transactions can be accepted safely wherever you may be.
Know your card’s features.
Most debit card apps come with a slew of safety features that include customizing alerts for debit card transactions, freezing your card when it’s misplaced, and turning payments on or off. For example, the FKCB mobile app allows you to view your spending by type, date and location. You can turn access to the card off when not in use; configure the controls and alerts for debit card transactions; and manage the card’s other features. In addition, many cards feature advanced controls that can be managed through your smartphone that can save you time and money if you encounter problems with your card.
Bring fewer cards.
When vacationing, take only the cards that you know you’ll use, plus one backup. Make sure all cards are well-protected at all times, and monitor your balances when possible. Remember to be cautious when accessing a financial account online or using public wi-fi connections. Double check your purchases when you return home. Don’t forget about your digital wallet. Most debit cards can be uploaded to your mobile app thereby eliminating the need to carry them with you.
Be aware of your surroundings before using an ATM.
Be vigilant about observing your surroundings when using an ATM. Pay attention to anyone loitering near a machine. Always use a machine in a well-lit area, preferably inside a facility. Inspect the front of the ATM for card skimmers that can be adhered to the machine or to a nearby wall or light fixture. Cover the keypad as you enter your PIN.
Familiarize yourself with the steps if your card is missing.
The most important thing to remember if your debit card is missing is to act fast. Immediately contact your financial institution to cancel the card. Make sure you have their contact information with you when you travel. File a police report and place a fraud alert on your credit report. Change the passwords to your accounts as soon as possible.
For more information on debit card safety, or to apply for a debit card, call First Keystone Community Bank at 570-752-3671, or visit https://www.fkc.bank/services-tools/banking-services/online-banking-bill-pay/.
FAQs
A debit card offers a convenient way to access money when you're traveling, whether you're on a Greek getaway or a Rocky Mountains ski trip. Using a debit card while traveling may not be the best option, however, due to limitations in fraud protection and the potential for fees.
Is it safe to use a debit card when traveling? ›
A debit card offers a convenient way to access money when you're traveling, whether you're on a Greek getaway or a Rocky Mountains ski trip. Using a debit card while traveling may not be the best option, however, due to limitations in fraud protection and the potential for fees.
What are four tips consumers should know about using an ATM debit card safely? ›
Protecting Your ATM Card
Immediately notify your bank if it is lost or stolen. Keep your Personal Identification Number (PIN) a secret. Never write it down anywhere, especially on your ATM card. Never give any information about your ATM card or PIN over the telephone.
How safe is paying with debit card? ›
Using a debit card opens up the possibility that the thief will gain access to the funds in your checking account. Protections are in place if a debit card has been lost or stolen and used fraudulently, but only if you notify your banking institution.
How do I make sure my debit card is safe? ›
Use these ten ways to help keep your debit card safe.
- Protect your card details and PIN. ...
- Keep a close eye on your account. ...
- Set debit card alerts and controls. ...
- Use secure ATMs. ...
- Be cautious with online transactions. ...
- Keep your physical card safe. ...
- Report lost or stolen cards immediately.
It is much better to use a credit card when making online purchases. 2) Restaurants. Consider this: your server often takes your card away to process your payment. While 90% of the time there is no problem, there is that 10% where the card is copied for their future use.
Do I need to let my debit card know I'm traveling? ›
Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so they do not flag charges you make in another country as fraudulent.
What is one of the potential dangers of using a debit card? ›
The more prevalent risk inherent to debit cards is theft of personal information. When thieves steal your information–whether your debit card number, or information attached to your debit card such as name or date of birth–they piece together your identity.
What are three things on a debit card that provide security for the cardholder? ›
By supplying your security code, along with the debit or debit card number and expiration date, you're verifying that you are the cardholder. The security code on a debit card is sometimes referred to as a card verification value (CVV) or card verification code (CVC).
What are 4 potential drawbacks of debit cards? ›
Here are some cons of debit cards:
- They have limited fraud protection. ...
- Your spending limit depends on your checking account balance. ...
- They may cause overdraft fees. ...
- They don't build your credit score.
Fraudsters can still use your debit card even if they don't have the card itself. They don't even need your PIN—just your card number. If you've used your debit card for an off-line transaction (a transaction without your PIN), your receipt will show your full debit card number.
How does my debit card keep getting hacked? ›
Criminals may also be able to access your debit card information through a process called card skimming. Card skimming can happen anywhere — a shop, a restaurant, or an entertainment venue. People will utilize devices to capture card information, which they can later use to clone a card or make online purchases.
Can my debit card be scanned while in your wallet? ›
Similarly to card skimming, card scanning is a type of payment card theft where the fraudster with a scanning device gets close enough to your bag or wallet to scan your card number. This type of fraud is enabled by the fact that today's payment cards typically work on Radio Identification Frequency (RFID) technology.
Where is the safest place to use a debit card? ›
Use bank-owned ATMs only.
Gas station pumps can also be altered for skimming, so be careful when paying for gas with your debit card.
Can my bank see what I buy with my debit card? ›
So what happens is that when you swipe a debit card for purchase, the merchant only enters the amount and swipes. In a way, it means the debit card issuing bank only comes to know of the Merchant Category Code (MCC) and knows what kind of merchant it is and what is the amount.
Is tapping your debit card safer? ›
Tap to pay can be safer than paying with a credit card chip or debit PIN. When you insert your chip or enter your information into a credit card reader, that information can be copied or hacked. With tap to pay, your contactless debit card or credit card never makes physical contact with the card reader.
Is it better to use a credit card or debit card for travel? ›
Using Credit Cards on Vacation
Credit cards are generally the recommended choice of payment method to use when traveling. First, credit cards offer convenience and unparalleled security.
Where is it not safe to use a debit card? ›
Avoid public networks. Public internet networks at coffee shops, airports, and other public places may be where account hackers place devices that can intercept your debit card information if you go online to make a transaction. Use a strong password. Creating a complex password helps further secure your debit card.
Is it OK to use a debit card at a hotel? ›
Paying for a hotel with a debit card
Many hotels accept debit cards when you book or check in, but they may request a security deposit. The hotel may place a hold on your debit card, but the money isn't withdrawn from your account until checkout.
Is there a downside to using a debit card? ›
If you overspend, you could get hit with costly overdraft fees: If charges to your debit card cause your checking account balance to go negative, you could suffer overdraft fees and other steep charges that far exceed the potential costs of using a credit card.
