אל על | אטמוספירה

01\ Use secured credit cards and digital payment methods. One of the safest ways to make payments when you’re traveling, is via credit card. Credit cards often offer additional protections like purchase insurance or the option to cancel suspicious transactions. Digital payment methods such as Apple Pay or Google Wallet are also good options as they encrypt your data which reduces the risk of having your data stolen. 02\ Be vigilant when using an ATM. ATMs can be the targets of “skimmer attacks”, which are when a “skimmer” - a piece of equipment that records someone’s credit card or bank account details – is placed inside the machine incognito. Scammers can also place hidden cameras that directly point towards the keypad and record your PIN code. To avoid the risk of being scammed this way, always prefer an ATM machine that is placed somewhere secure like a bank or a hotel, and not in the street where it’s potentially less safe. Before you insert your card, check for any signs of suspicious activity like a wonky card reader, or anything that looks out of place. If something doesn’t look right about the machine, don’t use it, and if possible, report it. What is more, when inserting your PIN code, make sure to hide the keypad from any cameras. These mere simple steps will keep your data protected from scammers and potential theft.

03\ Get bank account notifications on your phone. To ensure you’re immediately alerted in case of suspicious activity on your bank account, choose to receive notifications on your phone or by email for every transaction on your bank account. This way you’ll know about any potential unauthorized transactions in real time. 04\ Only connect to safe networks. Non-secure WiFi networks can potentially expose your personal data to the risk of being stolen. Safeguard your data by only ever connecting to networks you know to be safe and secure and use a VPN to encrypt your communications. 05\ Keep your credit cards in a safe place. When you’re traveling, it’s important to keep your credit card somewhere no one can get to, like your jacket’s inner pocket for instance. If you know you won’t be needing your

card on a particular day, leave it in the hotel safe. Also, avoid walking around with numerous cards on you, so as to minimize damages in case of loss or theft. 06\ Use strong passwords and 2-factor authentication. Make sure your Internet banking service is protected by strong passwords and 2-factor authentication, which adds an extra layer of protection as it requires additional authentication (such as a code sent to your phone). 07\ Act quickly in case of data theft. If you suspect your credit card details have been stolen, take immediate action. Report the incident to your bank or credit card company so that they can block your card and prevent further transactions. If there’s been unauthorized use of your card, check if your insurance will cover the loss and take action to claim the money back.

Guide cowritten with digital security company ESET

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ATMOSPHERE NOVEMBER 2024