In Focus – SCCCU Blog

You've planned the trip. Packed the bags. Downloaded the playlists. You're finally sipping something cold by the pool, and then your phone buzzes. You can answer, and someone asks: "Did you just spend $847 at an electronics store?" Nothing ruins vacation faster than finding out someone else is enjoying your money.

Here are a few simple best practices to help keep your vacation full of great memories instead of fraud headaches:

1. Public Wi-Fi isn't your friend. That free airport Wi-Fi? The hotel lobby? Your favorite coffee shop? Perfect for scrolling TikTok. Not so perfect for logging into your checking account. Public Wi-Fi makes it easier for scammers to intercept your information. So, if you need to check your balance, transfer money, or pay a bill, use your phone's cell connection instead. If it can wait until you're back at the hotel on a secure network, even better.
2. The "Dream Vacation Deal" might be a nightmare. Picture this. You find an incredible beachfront condo for half the price of every other listing. The owner says lots of people are interested, so you have to pay today. They only accept wire transfers or payment apps - that's a red flag. Scammers know vacation excitement makes people act fast. Before you book anything, slow down. Read reviews, verify the website, and never pay someone who pressures you to send money immediately. If it feels rushed, it's probably a scam.
3. Your phone isn't just your phone anymore. It's your wallet. Your boarding pass. Your banking app. Your travel itinerary. Your password manager. Your camera. So, protect it like it's your passport. Use Face ID or a strong passcode. Turn on "Find My iPhone" or "Find My Device." And definitely do not leave it sitting on a beach chair while you jump in the ocean.
4. Don't keep all your money in one place. We've all done it. Wallet packed with every credit card, debit card, cash, driver's license, insurance card, and who knows what else. Unfortunately, if your wallet disappears, everything disappears. Instead, carry one or two cards, a little cash, and keep a backup card somewhere separate, like your hotel safe or another bag.
5. ATMs can be sneaky, too. When you need cash, skip the random ATM outside the souvenir shop. Instead, use machines located inside a bank or credit union whenever possible (and as a member you won't be charged a fee to use any CO-OP ATM). Before inserting your card, take a quick look at the card reader. If something seems loose, bulky, or just doesn't look right, walk away. Card skimmers are designed to blend in, but taking five extra seconds could save you weeks of dealing with fraud.
6. Check you account (even on vacation). Nobody wants to think about money while they're relaxing, but checking your account once a day takes less than a minute. If someone starts using your card without permission, catching it early can make all the difference. Most mobile banking apps let you quickly review transactions while you're waiting in line for coffee or relaxing by the pool.
7. Watch what you share. Vacation photos are half the fun of going on any trip. But maybe wait until you're home before announcing that you're out of town for the next 10 days. Public social media posts can tell criminals exactly when your house is empty. Share the fun vacation selfies. Just consider posting them after you've returned home.
8. Trust your gut. Scammers have gotten really good at creating a sense of urgency. You may be told things, such as: "Your reservation has been canceled," or "Verify your account immediately," or "Click here before your payment expires." Whenever someone wants you to panic, pause instead. Take a breath. Read the message carefully. If you're unsure, contact the company using the phone number or website you already know is legitimate, not the one in the text or email.

Keep the Souvenirs. Leave the Scams Behind.

Vacation should leave you with great stories, not fraud alerts. By taking a few simple precautions before and during your trip, you'll spend less time worrying about your money and more time enjoying every moment. Go explore. Try something new. Make unforgettable memories. We'll help you keep your money safe while you're doing it.