Protecting Your Finances and Information While Traveling

Author: Jeff Weeks, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer

As the warm weather arrives and summer travel plans take shape, it's easy to get swept up in the excitement of new destinations, relaxing beaches, or bustling city adventures. However, amid the excitement, travelers often face heightened cybersecurity financial risks that can turn a dream vacation into a stressful ordeal. Whether you're jetting off overseas or exploring locally, understanding the financial and digital threats unique to travel is essential for safeguarding your money and data.

While at home, you typically enjoy secure internet access, familiar service providers, and a controlled financial environment. When you travel, these comforts—and the security they afford—are often left behind. Travelers tend to rely on public Wi-Fi, unfamiliar ATMs, and ad-hoc reservations made on the go. These create ideal conditions for cybercriminals to exploit unsuspecting tourists.

Increased reliance on mobile devices and digital payment systems makes it easier than ever for threat actors to intercept sensitive information or con travelers into sharing financial details. Understanding common scams and developing a cautious, proactive mindset can go a long way in protecting your finances.

Device Security

Regularly update personal devices and applications to the latest software versions to protect against security vulnerabilities. Set passcodes and perform backups regularly. Enable remote wiping so you can wipe your device if it is stolen.

Watch Out for Travel-Related Scams

Criminals often tailor scams specifically to exploit travelers’ unfamiliarity with new surroundings. Some of the most common financial scams include:

Accommodation Scams: Fake rental listings on popular platforms or spoofed websites can trick travelers into paying deposits for phony properties. Warning signs include deeply discounted rates, demands for wire transfers or payment outside the legitimate website or application, and communication that steers you away from official platforms.

Transportation Scams: Fraudulent taxi drivers or ride-sharing impersonators may charge exorbitant rates, use rigged meters, or take longer routes to drive up your fare. Others may pretend to be from legitimate companies and convince you to prepay for services.

Ticket Scams: Fake tickets to museums, events, or local attractions are common in tourist hotspots. Scammers sell forged or invalid tickets online or near event entrances.

Rental Scams (Vehicles or Equipment): Whether renting a car, scooter, or beach gear, travelers may be charged for pre-existing damage or be presented with fake damage claims. Take pictures before and after rental.

ATM Security While Traveling

ATMs are indispensable for travelers, but they’re also a prime target for skimming and surveillance.

Use ATMs in secure, well-lit locations such as bank branches or airports rather than standalone machines on the street.

If something feels off—like loose parts or obstructed card slots—walk away.

Always cover the keypad with your free hand when entering your credit card or debit card PIN to protect against hidden cameras and prying eyes.

Check your accounts regularly to identify unauthorized activity.

Using Your Cards Abroad

Before you go, inform your financial institution of your travel plans so they don’t mistakenly flag foreign transactions as fraud. Some banks offer travel notifications through their mobile apps.

While traveling, use your credit card instead of your debit card. Credit cards typically offer stronger consumer protection, and they don’t grant direct access to your bank account.

Avoid using cards at unfamiliar or unverified businesses. If you must use an ATM or pay at a kiosk, inspect the device for tampering.

Juice Jacking

When your phone’s battery dips into the red zone mid-travel, it’s tempting to plug into a public charging station. However, these seemingly helpful amenities can hide significant risks, specifically a cyberattack technique known as juice jacking.

Juice jacking occurs when a compromised USB port or charging cable is used to steal data from your device or inject malware without your knowledge. This type of malware can be used to:

• Harvest personal information such as contacts, messages, or stored passwords.
• Install surveillance software that tracks keystrokes or location data.
• Open backdoors that allow hackers to access financial apps or online accounts.

You can protect yourself from juice jacking with these simple changes:

• Use a power-only USB cable that blocks data transfer while allowing charging.
• Carry a portable power bank to avoid relying on public USB ports.
• Use your wall charger to plug into an electrical outlet instead of using a public USB port.
• Disable data transfer (e.g., “File Transfer” or “Data Access” mode) if prompted when connecting via USB.

Stay Vigilant and Travel Smart

Vacations are meant to be refreshing and restorative, not ruined by financial stress or fraud. As you plan your vacations, take time to plan for your information and financial safety, too. From using secure payment methods and avoiding common scams to practicing good ATM and card safety, a little caution can go a long way.

By staying alert and taking proactive steps, you can enjoy your travels with greater peace of mind. Knowing that your finances are protected will ensure your vacation remains focused on fun, not fraud.

About the Author

Jeff has been with First National Bank of Omaha for more than 26 years and is currently the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer. The executive leadership and oversight provided by Jeff in the development, management, and execution of information security for FNBO enables the company’s ability to posture and protect private, personal information, and assets of the company’s clients, employees, and business partners.