Keep your money safe this summer

With the start of the summer holidays, Nationwide has put together some top tips to stay alert to fraud

27 July 2012: Whatever the weather, the start of the school holidays marks the true beginning of summer. And whether you’re planning to go abroad, opting for a staycation or visiting a major sporting event in the UK, it is important to keep your money safe and be on your guard for fraudsters and thieves.

We have created a special page on our website providing you with information to help protect yourself from fraud, but here are some top tips to staying safe this summer.

1. Don’t shout about your holiday: No matter how excited you might be, don’t tell everyone about your holiday and advertise the fact that your home is likely to be empty, particularly on social networking sites. Ask a trusted friend to check your mail whilst you’re away as piles of letters are a dead giveaway of an unoccupied house.

2. Keep an eye on your cards: Don’t let your debit and credit cards out of your sight in shops and restaurants, both at home and overseas, and never reveal your PIN to anyone. If travelling abroad only take the payment cards you need (including a back up card) and inform your card provider before you go to alert them of your holiday plans and destination.

3. Take care at cash machines: Always use modern ATMs belonging to reputable institutions and don’t use a machine that looks like it’s been tampered with – fraudsters can use skimming devices to capture your data. Make sure you shield the keypad when tapping in your PIN to avoid thieves “shoulder-surfing” to steal your details. If the ATM doesn’t return your card, inform your card provider immediately.

4. Beware of bogus bookings: It’s best to book accommodation and travel plans directly with the hotel and carrier, or via a reputable travel company, particularly if you’re booking online. If you’re using an agent make sure they are ABTA or ATOL members. The same applies whether you’re going abroad or visiting a sporting event at home.

5. Be prepared: Before you travel make sure you have your building society, bank or credit card company's 24 hour contact number in case you have any problems, and take a copy of your travel insurance documents. When you return home check your statements as soon as possible and immediately alert your provider to any suspicious transactions.