June is the month when Canadians think about traveling. Whether it’s a camping vacation, a road trip, or a Mediterranean cruise, if you are lucky enough to get away, there are some simple steps you can take to help protect your cards from being used fraudulently when you’re on holiday.

• Treat your debit and credit cards like cash and protect them in the same way. Consider purchasing a money belt to wear under your clothing or around your neck so that your cash, cards and identification are hidden and out of sight of potential pickpockets. Some retailers also offer money belts that look like regular belts but have a hidden zippered pocket along the length.
• Only carry the cards and personal identification that you’ll need for your trip with you; leave the rest at home.
• Always protect the Personal Identification Number (PIN) for your debit and credit cards. Never share them with anyone, never write them down, and use either your hand or your body as a shield when entering your number on a keypad. Your debit card is useless to a criminal without the PIN so keep it safe.
• Always keep your cards and identification with you or lock them in a secure hotel safe. Don’t leave them behind in the hotel room or in the car.
• If your debit or credit card is lost or stolen, report it to your financial institution immediately so that they can put a block on your card ensuing that it’s useless to criminals. Make a list of the toll-free reporting phone numbers on the back of your cards and keep the list in your suitcase for reference.
• Remember, be cautious, not paranoid. Don’t let the idea of criminals stealing your money ruin your trip. Canadians are well protected and, with your debit and credit cards, if you are the victim of fraud, you will get your money back. So use common sense but, more importantly, have a good time!

Interested in more fraud prevention tips? Visit the Fraud and Security section of the Canadian Bankers Association website for more information.

Canada's banks take the issue of privacy, security and fraud prevention very seriously. They work hard to prevent their operations and customers from being used for any kind of financial crime and to raise awareness, through efforts such as Fraud Prevention Month, about the ways that customers can protect themselves.

As a consumer, you have an important role to play in your bank's fraud prevention efforts. This month, we’ll continue our look at ways to protect yourself and your money while you’re on vacation.