Debit Card Safety When Travelling | Be Fraud Aware

Top Debit Card Safety Tips for Sligo Credit Union Current Account Members When Travelling

As you get ready for your next adventure, it’s always a good idea to keep safety in mind. Whether you’re traveling far and wide or staying closer to home, a few simple precautions can go a long way in making your trip smooth and enjoyable. Here are some helpful tips to keep your travels safe and stress-free.

BOOKING YOUR TRIP 

• Avoid Bank Transfers: Try to avoid making payments through bank transfers, as they can be difficult to trace.
• Scamchecker Check: Before finalising any holiday, review the booking link on scamchecker.ie.
• Verify Before You Buy: Always verify special offers by visiting the travel company's official website directly, rather than clicking on links within emails or ads.
• Unexpected Offers: Stay cautious of unsolicited emails or ads on social media that promote cheap holiday deals.
• Public WIFI: Refrain from using unsecured or public Wi-Fi networks when making payments; switch to your phone's 3G/4G if needed.

CARD SAFETY WHEN TRAVELLING 

1. The Current Account Debit Card is acceptable worldwide. Ensure to carry your debit card securely. This is important to prevent theft when visiting busy tourist attractions.
2. Make sure your debit card is not due to expire - new debit cards will be received 2 weeks in advance of expiry date and work for the full expiry month.
3. Setup Apple/Google Pay onto your devices to make payments. This will provide a backup for you if you leave your wallet behind. Consider having a second card as back up while abroad.
4. Ensure we have your current mobile number details before you travel. It's vital that we have the right number for you on file, to verify your transactions or your debit card may be suspended.
5. If you wish to put a Travel Note on your account, please get in touch with the Card Services team at +353 (1) 693 3333.

CARD SAFETY WHEN SHOPPING ABROAD 

If you suspect you are a victim of a travel scam, or you have lost your stolen debit card, contact us or the Credit Union Card Services team right away at +353 1 693 3333 (found on the back of your debit card) and report the incident to the Gardaí.

• Currency Conversion Fees in NON-EURO countries: Purchases and ATM withdrawals have minimums (€3) and maximums (€12).
• Use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas like banks or shopping centers and ensure you cover your PIN as you are entering it into the terminal.
• It may be cheaper to pay in the local currency. Consider bringing local currency as a backup for areas that may not accept debit cards.
• Enable transaction notifications for your debit card purchases. This can be done via your APP, by contacting us or if you are registered for Apple Pay or Google Pay.
• NEVER EVER let your debit card out of sight when paying for goods or services. Always ensure you check the amount entered on the terminal before tapping or authenticating with your PIN and request a receipt.