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You’ve packed your bags, booked your flights and hotel, and even notified us of your travel plans and which cards you'll be using. Are you forgetting anything?

Hopefully not! A little preparation can go a long way toward protecting your money and your peace of mind while you're away. Here are some important tips to help you avoid fraud and keep your accounts secure during your travels.

Use Safe Payment Practices

Protecting your account information starts with how you pay.

Whenever possible, use your credit card instead of your debit card. Credit cards generally offer stronger fraud protections and help prevent unauthorized transactions from directly affecting the money in your checking account.

When a merchant offers the option, choose to tap to pay. Contactless payments help reduce the risk of card information being stolen because your card never enters the payment terminal. This added layer of security helps protect your information from card skimmers and other methods fraudsters use to capture card data.

If tap-to-pay is unavailable and you need to insert your card, take a moment to inspect the card reader before using it.

Watch for Card Skimmers

Card skimmers are illegal devices placed over or inside legitimate card readers to capture and steal card information. They can be found anywhere a card is accepted, but are most commonly found at ATMs, gas pumps, and unattended payment terminals.

If you need cash while traveling, try to use an ATM located inside a financial institution rather than a standalone ATM.

How to Spot a Card Skimmer

A quick inspection can help protect you from becoming a victim of card fraud.

Look for the following warning signs:

• Loose, bulky, or misaligned card readers
• Parts of the terminal that appear attached or glued on
• Discoloration or mismatched materials
• Different fonts, colors, or graphics compared to the rest of the machine
• A card slot that appears wider or protrudes more than normal

You can also gently wiggle the card reader. If parts of the reader move, seem loose, or appear easy to remove, a skimmer may be present.

Extra Precautions at Gas Pumps

Gas pumps are a favorite target for fraudsters. Many fuel pumps have security seals placed on the access panels. Before using your card, check the seal for signs of tampering.

Avoid using the pump if the seal:

• Appears cut or damaged
• Displays words such as "VOID" or "OPEN"
• Looks altered or replaced

If you believe a skimmer is present, do not use the terminal. Notify the business immediately or contact local authorities.

Keep Your Cards in Sight

One of the simplest ways to reduce fraud risk is to know where your cards are at all times.

Whenever possible, keep your card within view while making a purchase. Avoid situations where a merchant takes your card out of sight to complete a transaction. This can help reduce the risk of unauthorized charges or compromised card information.

If a payment terminal can be brought to you, request that the transaction be completed in your presence.

Monitor Your Account Activity

Even with the best precautions, fraud can happen. That's why it's important to regularly monitor your accounts while traveling.

CU Hawaii's digital services make it easy to stay informed wherever you are:

• CU Hawaii Mobile App – Monitor account balances and transactions in real time.
• CUHI Cards App – Monitor, control, and protect your CU Hawaii debit and credit cards.
• Telephone Banking – Convenient access to account information when you're away from home.
• CU Hawaii Call Center – Available to assist with transaction questions, fraud concerns, and account support.

Call Center Hours: (808) 933-6700 
(800) 933-6706 (Toll-Free) 

Monday - Friday: 8:00am – 5:00pm 
Saturday: 8:00am – 1:00pm 
Sunday: Closed

Review your accounts frequently and report any suspicious activity immediately.

Be Alert for Fraud Alerts and Scams

While traveling, you may receive fraud alerts from CU Hawaii's fraud department regarding unusual account activity.

Always verify fraud alerts, texts, emails, and phone calls before responding. If you're uncertain whether a communication is legitimate, contact CU Hawaii directly through a trusted phone number.

Remember: scammers often impersonate financial institutions to steal personal information.

CU Hawaii will never call you and ask for sensitive information such as:

• Your full card number
• Your CVV/security code
• Your PIN
• Your complete Social Security number
• Your online banking username and password

If someone requests this information, treat it as a red flag and contact us immediately.

Practice Safe Digital Banking

While traveling, avoid accessing mobile banking or making online purchases while connected to public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks, such as those found in hotels, airports, cafés, and restaurants.

Instead, use:

• Your cellular data connection
• A personal mobile hotspot
• A trusted Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Unsecured networks can make it easier for cybercriminals to intercept sensitive information.

Be Careful Where You Save Your Card Information

Digital wallets can offer both convenience and added security. Services such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay use security features that help protect your card information during transactions.

However, it's generally safer to avoid saving your payment information directly on merchant websites whenever possible.

Many online retailers will ask if you'd like to "save this card for future purchases." While convenient, storing card information on multiple websites can increase your exposure if a retailer experiences a data breach.

Enjoy Your Trip, Travel Safely

A few simple precautions can help protect your finances while you're away from home. By using secure payment methods, staying alert for card skimmers, monitoring your accounts, and practicing good digital security habits, you can focus on enjoying your trip with greater confidence and peace of mind.

If you suspect fraud or have concerns about your accounts while traveling, contact CU Hawaii immediately. We're here to help you stay protected wherever your travels take you.