Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, loading up the RV for a cross-country adventure, or flying to a new destination, some preparation can go a long way in protecting your finances while you’re away from home.

Scammers often target travelers who are distracted, using unfamiliar Wi-Fi networks, or making purchases on the go. Before you pack your bags, use this list to help keep your accounts and personal information safe and secure.

1. Set Up Account Alerts

One of the easiest ways to stay informed while traveling is by enabling account alerts through your online or mobile banking. Alerts can notify you of debit card purchases, withdrawals, deposits, or suspicious activity, allowing you to respond quickly if something doesn’t look right.

2. Use Card Controls

If your debit card is misplaced during your trip, having access to Card Controls can provide peace of mind. You can temporarily freeze your card, receive transaction notifications, and manage card activity directly from the Midwest Heritage mobile app until you’re able to locate it or contact the bank.

3. Let Your Bank Know You’re Traveling

If you’re traveling outside your normal spending area, notifying your bank ahead of time can help reduce the chance of legitimate purchases being flagged as suspicious. Travel notifications can also be managed within the Midwest Heritage mobile app.

4. Be Careful with Public Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi at airports, hotels, and coffee shops can be convenient, but it isn’t always secure. Avoid accessing sensitive financial information or logging into banking accounts while on public networks whenever possible. If you need to manage your accounts, consider using your mobile data connection or a trusted, secure network.

5. Bring More Than One Payment Method

Having a backup debit or credit card can save you from unnecessary stress if one card is lost, damaged, or compromised. Keep your backup card in a separate, safe location from your primary wallet.

6. Monitor Your Accounts Daily

It only takes a minute to review your recent transactions. Checking your accounts each day while you’re traveling can help you identify unauthorized activity early, making it easier to report potential fraud before it becomes a larger issue.

7. Watch for Card Skimmers

Before inserting your card at an ATM or fuel pump, take a quick look at the card reader. Loose or damaged readers, unusual attachments, or equipment that appears altered could be signs of a skimming device designed to steal card information.

8. Never Share Personal Banking Information

Fraudsters often create a sense of urgency by pretending to be your financial institution. Remember that Midwest Heritage Bank will never ask for your PIN, CVV, online banking password, or other sensitive credentials through an unexpected phone call, text message, or email. If something doesn’t seem right, hang up and contact the bank using a trusted phone number.

9. Keep Your Devices Secure

Protect your phone, tablet, and laptop with a passcode, fingerprint, or facial recognition. If your device is lost while traveling, these security features can help keep your personal and financial information protected.

10. Know What to Do If Something Goes Wrong

Even with careful planning, things can happen. If your card is lost, stolen, or you notice suspicious account activity, contact Midwest Heritage Bank as soon as possible. Acting quickly can help protect your accounts and minimize potential fraud.

Travel with Confidence

Vacations should be filled with fun new experiences, not worries about your finances. By taking these simple precautions before you leave and staying aware while you’re away, you can focus on making memories knowing your financial security is protected.

For more tips and tools around fraud protection and scam detection, check out our Fraud Prevention page here; Fraud Prevention | Midwest Heritage.