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a ton of grief and money - and protect your identity.
• Credit and debit cards. If you're planning to travel - especially overseas - follow these precautions:
• • Tell your card issuers where and how long you're traveling so they'll be on guard against unauthorized transactions. Also, bank fraud departments have sophisticated systems for detecting unusual account activity, so if a transaction raises concern and you're not home to field their call, your account could be frozen until you can be reached.
• • Immediately report lost or stolen cards and/or unauthorized transactions to your card issuer.
• • Carry at least two cards in case one gets damaged or closed temporarily. It might take a few days for the bank to mail you a new card.
• • In case of theft, carry a list of card issuers' fraud hotlines and your account numbers separate from your wallet. Perhaps leave a copy with a trusted friend. I also program these numbers into my cell phone for quick access.
• • Some bank's toll-free numbers may not work internationally, so ask for the right numbers before you leave.
• • Avoid using standalone or unusual-looking ATMs not located in secure areas. They might be altered or have hidden cameras that can "shoulder surf" your account information and PIN.
• • Beware of card skimming, where dishonest restaurant or store employees use a portable card reader to copy information from your credit or debit card's magnetic strip.
• • Save and check all receipts against your statement; also scan your statement for unauthorized transactions.
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