Holiday scamsCredit and debit cards

Card fraud abroad has been on the increase in recent years

Card fraud abroad has been on the increase in recent years. According to APACS, the UK payments association, overseas credit card fraud totalled more than £118 million in 2006 – a 43% increase on 2005. 

The problem with plastic

We are spending more on our cards overseas than ever before, leaving us increasingly susceptible to fraudulent activity.

Fraudsters are becoming progressively sophisticated too, but Chip and PIN technology has helped reduce card fraud in countries where it’s employed. But there are still numerous places worldwide where this method is not used. 

Tips

Despite the prevalence of card fraud, there are a number of things you can do to foil the fraudsters:

• Always shield your PIN with your free hand when typing it into a keypad in a shop, restaurant or cash machine.
• Guard your card and card details at all times. When paying for purchases by card, try not to let it out of your sight.
• Safeguard your PIN. Don’t give it to anyone, even if they claim to be from the police or from your bank.
• Only take cards with you that you intend to use on holiday. Leave those you don’t need in a secure place at home.
• Make sure you know the 24-hour phone numbers for cancelling your cards in case they are lost or stolen. Don’t keep these numbers in your wallet; keep them separate from your cards.
• Check statements carefully when you return home for unfamiliar transactions.