Summer is a time for travel, outdoor events, and creating lasting memories. However, it's also a prime season for scammers and fraudsters to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers. At PSECU, we're committed to protecting your finances and helping you stay safe – and that includes during your summer adventures. Here are some of our best tips for making secure purchases and protecting your finances while you’re off having fun.
1. Book Through Reputable Sources
When planning your summer vacations, it's essential to book through reputable travel agencies, airlines, hotels, and booking websites. If you accidentally use an illegitimate one set up by a fraudster, it can be a way for them to gain access to your personal or financial information. Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true – most of the time, they are. Always check to make sure any website you use has a secure URL (https://), and read reviews and talk to other travelers about their experiences.
2. Watch for Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are common during peak travel seasons. Be cautious of emails or messages you receive claiming to be from airlines, hotels, or event organizers asking for personal information or payment. If they were unsolicited, they could be from a fraudster, and you should avoid clicking any links or giving them personal information. If you wish to, verify the sender's email address and contact the organization directly using a trusted phone number or website to see if they are legitimate.
3. Verify Event Tickets
If you’re purchasing tickets for concerts, sports events, or festivals, be on the lookout for counterfeit ticket scams. Third-party sellers can offer fake tickets to concerts as a way to get your money or personal information, so always buy directly from the official event website or a reputable ticket vendor.
4. Use Secure Payment Methods
Whenever possible, use a debit or credit card instead of cash for your purchases and bookings. Cards offer more protection against fraud compared to cash, and Visa® cards – like the ones offered by PSECU – have a Zero Liability Policy so cardholders won’t be held responsible for unauthorized transactions. They also offer continuous fraud monitoring and data encryption. Services like Apple Pay® or Google Pay™ will encrypt your transactions, providing an extra layer of security as well. If you're buying tickets for events or making reservations, use websites and apps that offer buyer protection.
5. Keep an Eye on Your Accounts
Fraudsters can get access to your accounts without you even noticing. It’s important to regularly monitor your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. Many financial institutions offer account alerts that notify you of suspicious activity, so be sure to take advantage of these so you can respond quickly if your information is compromised.
6. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Transactions
Public Wi-Fi networks at airports, hotels, and cafes are convenient but often lack security. If you’re on public Wi-Fi, avoid accessing your bank accounts or making purchases. Instead, wait until you have access to a secure, private internet connection or use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to protect your personal information from any potential fraudsters’ eyes.
7. Protect Your Devices
Your smartphone, tablet, or laptop likely has a lot of your personal and financial information on it, so you want to be sure they have all the security software updates they need before you take them anywhere. Always be sure to use strong, unique passwords for every one of your log-ins and accounts, and if you can, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for an added layer of security. If your device is lost or stolen, having these protections in place can help safeguard your information.
8. Use RFID Protection
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) skimming is a method used by thieves to steal information from credit cards, passports, and other items containing RFID chips. Any extra bit of security can help, so if you can, pick up some RFID-blocking wallets or sleeves to store your cards and devices in to protect them from electronic pickpocketing.
9. Be Cautious Using ATMs
When traveling, there may be times when you need cash. If you need to use an ATM, look for one located inside a bank or in a well-lit area. Avoid standalone ATMs in high-traffic tourist spots, as they can be targeted by fraudsters looking to install skimming devices. Cover your keypad when entering your PIN to prevent anyone looking over your shoulder or nearby cameras from learning your PIN.
10. Report Fraud Immediately
If you suspect you've fallen victim to a scam or fraudsters got a hold of your personal or financial information using one of these methods, report it immediately. Contact your bank or credit card company to alert them of any unauthorized transactions, and report what happened to the Federal Trade Commission. Reporting fraud quickly can help limit the damage done to you and others and start the process of recovering your lost funds.
Stay Safe with PSECU
At PSECU, we're dedicated to helping you enjoy a worry-free summer. For more tips on protecting your personal and financial information, visit the Fraud section of our Resource Center. By staying informed and vigilant, you can ensure your summer travels are not only fun but safe, too.
