ICBA and SSB Bank Offer Travel Safety Tips

Whether your travels take you across the globe or across state lines, SSB Bank and the Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) remind consumers to plan carefully to keep their money safe and summer vacations on track.

Most financial experts advise limiting the use of cash and paying with a debit or credit card for major purchases. That’s because credit and debit cards come with additional protections, such as zero-liability for fraud-related charges, which can offer greater peace of mind while traveling.

ICBA and SSB Bank offer the following additional travel tips for consideration before taking off for a much-anticipated vacation.

• Share your travel plans with your community bank to avoid account holds or transaction rejections when out-of-the-ordinary transactions are presented for processing or posted.
• Contact your bank to request a chip-enabled card particularly if your travel plans take you overseas where chip-enabled technology is quickly becoming a card acceptance requirement, for all card transactions.
• Carry at least two cards with you so you have a backup. Families or couples may get even greater back-up coverage if each person takes a different card.
• Set up transaction alerts for credit and debit cards. If you suspect your information has been compromised contact your bank and credit card provider as soon as possible.
• Bring a list of emergency phone numbers, but remember, 800-numbers can only be used in the United States and Canada. Be sure to get a number for your bank that you can call if you are out of the country.
• Inquire whether your credit card provides travel accident insurance and traveler’s assistance. Ask your community bank what special services are available.
• Know the limits on how much you can withdraw and save your receipts.
• Thoroughly check any ATMs that you use. Ensure the card reader does not look like it has been tampered with. When in doubt choose another terminal.
• Lock away valuables such as passports, backup credit cards, copies of financial information and extra cash in your hotel safe.
• Use social media with care. Posting your pictures or whereabouts during travel could leave you susceptible to home invaders.
• Don’t wait for your monthly statement. Upon returning from your vacation, review your purchases and ATM withdrawals with your bank and credit card companies.

Remember, in the event that something unfortunate does occur, reach out to SSB Bank where our staff stands ready to lend a helping hand.

For more information about what to do in the event of a lost or stolen card, visit https://usa.visa.com/support/consumer/lost-stolen-card.html or https://www.mastercard.us/en-us/consumers/get-support.html

About ICBA
The Independent Community Bankers of America®, the nation’s voice for nearly 5,700 community banks of all sizes and charter types, is dedicated exclusively to representing the interests of the community banking industry and its membership through effective advocacy, best-in-class education and high-quality products and services. For more information, visit ICBA’s website at www.icba.org.