Sun, Sand & Scams? Not This Summer! Tips to Keep Your Money & Debit Cards Safe While You Travel

Ahh, summer. The season of road trips, beach days, and long-overdue getaways. Whether you’re headed to the coast or catching flights to somewhere fabulous, your vacation should be all about relaxation—not worrying about fraud or financial mishaps.

At Old Ocean Federal Credit Union, we’ve got your back. Here are a few easy, smart ways to keep your money and debit cards safe while you’re off having summer adventures:

🛑 1. Let Us Know You’re Traveling

Before you hit the road or hop on that plane, give us a quick heads-up! When we know you’re traveling, we’re less likely to flag your out-of-town card purchases as suspicious. Plus, it helps us keep a closer eye out for anything that does look fishy.

You can let us know by calling or stopping by the credit union —or check your mobile app for travel notice options.

💳 2. Use Your Card Like a Pro

• Stick to secure ATMs—preferably ones at banks or well-lit, monitored areas. Avoid sketchy-looking machines in gas stations or convenience stores.
• Shield your PIN like a secret recipe. When you’re entering it, use your hand or body to block prying eyes—or sneaky cameras.
• Tap to pay when you can! It’s fast, convenient, and safer than inserting your card into machines that could be compromised.

📱 3. Use Mobile Alerts

Mobile alerts = peace of mind. Get notified when your card is used, and you’ll spot anything suspicious instantly. It’s like having your card whisper updates in your ear (but less creepy, we promise).

If you haven’t already, download the Old Ocean FCU mobile app and set up alerts for transactions, balances, and more.

🎒 4. Travel Light—Financially

Don’t carry all your debit or credit cards with you while traveling. Pick one or two you’ll use most often, and leave the rest somewhere safe. Less to carry, less to worry about!

Also: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. If you must, stash it in more than one place (a travel wallet and a hidden pouch, for example).

🕵️ 5. Keep It Private on Public Wi-Fi

Checking your balance while sipping iced coffee at a café in Key West? Be careful. Public Wi-Fi is a hacker’s playground. Use a VPN if you can, or wait until you’re on a secure network to do any banking.

✋ 6. Lost Card? Act Fast.

If your card is lost or stolen, don’t panic—just contact us immediately so we can shut it down and protect your account. The faster you report it, the less chance someone else can use it.

💡 Bonus Tip: Trust Your Gut

If something feels off—a sketchy website, a weird-looking ATM, or a too-good-to-be-true deal—it probably is. Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to walk away or double-check with us.

Safe travels, friends! Wherever this summer takes you, Old Ocean FCU is here to help keep your financial life safe, simple, and stress-free.

Need to set a travel notice or have a question? Call us or stop by—we’re always happy to help.

☀️ Now go make some memories. Just don’t forget the sunscreen—and your card!