Travel Advice -   ATM and credit card security.                                            

Use your ATM card as a source of cash when you travel internationally. Before you leave home, make sure you deposit enough cash in the account linked to the ATM card to meet your cash needs on vacation.

Use the credit card for purchases, hotels, and dining.

• The value of the credit card lies in the theft and purchase protection it provides you through the card’s provider.
• In addition, the conversion rates provided by credit card companies are reasonably competitive.

For security, keep both cards in your money belt until you need to use them but carry them in different pockets of the money belt. Return the cards to the money belt as soon as possible. Don't put them in your wallet. 

Be especially careful when using your ATM card since it is linked with your bank account.

• Do not carry a written record of your ATM card PIN. However, if your bank account is the source of cash for the vacation, make sure that your travel companion knows the PIN in case they need to get cash in an emergency. 
• If you are uncomfortable with the potential risk of using and ATM card, consider the new cash cards for travelers.

When entering your pin, shield the key pad from  view. 

• One of the new ATM scams is for thieves to install a camera on the ATM that captures the number on your card and the keys you push to enter your password.
• If you think you are being observed by a person,  gesture as if you were hitting a couple of buttons, to confuse anyone who might be trying to observe  the pattern you are using to enter your pin. 
• Finally, be sure to read our article on ATM safety.

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