When you vacation, your credit cards and electronic devices can be prime targets for identity or physical theft. Use the following tips from the Computer Incident Response Team to protect yourself:
n Tell credit card vendors when and where you will be traveling, so your purchases can be vetted for fraudulent transactions. Also, let the vendor know when you are making large purchases, so your card won’t be frozen.
n When you swipe your card, cover the numbers on the front with your hand, so no one can observe the numbers or take a picture of the numbers with a phone.
n Ensure no one observes you typing in your Personal Identification Number (PIN).
n Use ATM devices in areas that are well-monitored, preferably inside stores when personnel are present. This will reduce the likelihood of encountering a phony swipe device (skimmer) to capture card and PIN information.
n While still at the checkout, review the receipt to ensure that an unintentional or accidental “cash advance” has not been added to your bill.
n Keep all receipts, and carefully compare purchases against your bill to make sure you are not charged for something you did not buy.
n Review the personal information on devices such as computers, smart phones, and tablets. Consider if the loss of this information could result in possible fraudulent crimes or personal danger, if the device is lost or stolen.
n Never leave these devices unattended. Devices should always be secured if you are not able to keep them in your possession.
n When available, enable computer disk encryption.
—Corporate Information Security Office,
Chief Information Officer, 7-25-13
